The Hottest Summer Shoe Trends for 2022: Every Style to Know
Your complete guide to summer shoe trends for 2022: Discover every must-have style, from plush pillow sandals to sky-high platforms and beyond.
All the Hottest Summer 2022 Shoe Trends About to Take Over
Warmer months are here, bringing opportunities for nights out, days at the beach, and endless sunshine—all calling for fresh, fabulous footwear. Before you put together your favorite summer looks, get ready to discover all the must-have shoe trends for Summer 2022 lighting up runways and streets alike. From cloud-like sandals to sky-high platforms and barely-there neon straps, there’s something for everyone this season. These are the styles set to make a bold statement—expect to see them everywhere you go.
Pillow Talk: Plush Pillow Sandals
If you’ve ever dreamed of taking the comfort of your bed to the streets, pillow-plush sandals will quickly become your favorite trend. Spotted on runways at Balmain, Ottolinger, and Giambattista Valli, these ultra-soft, cushioned sandals create the sensation of walking on a cloud.
- Chunky, plush straps and super-cushioned soles lend maximum comfort and style.
- Versatile options in slides, platforms, and sporty silhouettes.
- Ideal for pairing with flowy summer dresses, shorts, or even loungewear sets for a chic, effortless look.
Try these if you want comfort and statement style in one. Think marshmallow-like soles, puffy crossover straps, and soft, pillowy materials. Colorways range from neutral whites and beiges to playful pop colors, fitting any style mood.
Platform Perfection: Tall Platform Sandals & Heels
Seeking a little extra height? You’ll love that tall platforms are making a major comeback this summer. With retro influences from the ’70s and ’90s, these platforms were seen at Versace and Lanvin, with ultra-high soles and bold designs.
- Thick, sculptural soles that add inches without sacrificing comfort.
- Available in vibrant neons, glossy patent finishes, animal prints, and metallics for standout appeal.
- Great for everything from daytime adventures to nighttime events, giving you a striking, elongated silhouette.
Pro tip: Try pairing these platforms with a matching mini dress or wide-leg trousers for an Insta-ready ensemble. Whether you love pastel brights or edgy black, platforms will instantly elevate your summer wardrobe.
Vivid Hues: Neon and Bright Color Sandals
If you’re ready to let your footwear do the talking, look no further than neon-bright sandals. Channeling joy and optimism, these come in the season’s boldest shades—electric lime, punchy orange, hot pink, and everything in between.
- Minimal, strappy silhouettes let vibrant colors shine through.
- Eye-catching and perfect for amping up any summer outfit—denim, dresses, or swimwear coverups.
- Don’t be afraid to go for color-blocked combos or mix-and-match neon accessories for maximum impact.
From runway favorites to mass retailers, you’ll find neon sandals in every height and style imaginable. They’re the ultimate mood-boosters and an easy way to experiment with color this summer.
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Barely-There Sandals: Thin Straps & Delicate Details
On the opposite side of the spectrum from pillow sandals and platforms are summer’s barely-there sandals. Characterized by thin, delicate straps and minimal design, these create a “naked foot” illusion.
- Slim straps in leather, patent, or even transparent PVC for a subtle yet sexy vibe.
- Often found in playful pops of color, metallics, or even crystal embellishments.
- Versatility is key: these sandals pair perfectly with everything in your closet, from slip dresses to linen pants.
Highlighting the shape of your foot, these styles offer both glamour and minimalism. They’re easy to elevate or dress down, depending on your summer plans.
Lace-Up Sandals: Strappy Styles That Wrap & Wow
Lace-up sandals continue to reign supreme, updated for Summer 2022 with fun textures and new heights. Taking inspiration from gladiator styles, these feature straps that wind elegantly around the ankles and calves.
- Styles range from simple, single-wrap ankle ties to more elaborate, knee-high designs.
- Available in flat, mid-heel, and high-heel versions for every occasion.
- Statement or neutral shades allow lace-up sandals to suit both bold and classic personalities.
These sandals are favorites for vacation, music festivals, and city strolls—they instantly add visual interest, elongate the legs, and allow you to play with different knots and ties for custom vibes.
Sporty Vibes: Athletic and Utility Sandals
The sporty sandal trend draws from utilitarian influence, combining fashion with function for busy summer days. Embraced by designers like Prada, these sandals feature durable materials and adjustable straps, often in chunky silhouettes.
- Neoprene, rubber, mesh, and velcro became go-tos, ensuring breathability and support.
- Chunky soles and wide straps offer practical comfort and cool-girl appeal.
- Wear with casual shorts, oversized shirts, or even mix with feminine dresses for that high-low contrast.
Sporty sandals are your ticket to all-day comfort, perfect for errands, urban exploring, or active travel. Their street-style edge makes them an influencer favorite.
Statement Shoes: Embellishments, Platforms & Playful Shapes
If you like your shoes to be the center of attention, look out for statement details this season. Designers are serving up sandals with origami folds, sculptural heels, exaggerated bows, and even feathers.
- Look for unexpected shapes—geometric heels, exaggerated platforms, and architectural accents.
- Fun flashes: sparkly crystals, 3D florals, chains, fringe, and vibrant buckles.
- These are investment pieces made to start conversations—pair with simpler outfits to let your shoes shine.
Statement shoes are about expressing personality and celebrating the fun of fashion. Whether you choose a disco-inspired metallic or an artsy sculpted heel, these are the shoes you’ll want for those “wow factor” summer moments.
The Return of the Wedge
Love comfort and height? You’re in luck: wedge sandals are back, providing the lift of a heel with the stability of a flat. This season’s wedges span from classic espadrilles to futuristic lucite versions.
- Mid-height block wedges are big for 2022, but sky-high options exist for the daring.
- Styles range from minimalist leathers to vibrant, bejeweled, or transparent looks.
- Wedges pair well with maxi skirts, flowy dresses, and cropped pants, making them a true go-to.
From daytime brunches to sunset events, wedges are a reliable, fashionable choice—they deliver maximum impact with less risk of sore feet after hours of wear.
Fisherman Sandals: The Cool “Dad” Shoe
The fisherman sandal has graduated from practical staple to high-fashion “ugly” shoe, endorsed by runways and It-girls alike. With their caged designs and chunky soles, these sandals are convention-defying yet surprisingly versatile.
- Leather and rubber versions available, from sleek neutrals to bold, funky hues.
- Chunky, often supportive soles make them comfortable for long days out.
- Pair with floaty summer dresses or trendy utility separates for an intentional style clash.
Whether you’re nostalgic for childhood jelly shoes or want to try the latest “dad” trend, fisherman sandals suit both comfort seekers and fashion risk-takers.
Western Inspiration: Cowboy Boots for Summer
While summer is typically sandal season, Western boots have trotted onto the scene and won’t be ignored. These boots are imagined in lighter leathers, playful colors, or even cut-out designs to suit the warm weather.
- Look for classic stitch work, pointed toes, or funky modern updates.
- Style with shorts, flowy mini skirts, or even sundresses for unexpected contrast.
- White, tan, and pastel versions keep boots summer-appropriate.
Western boots add a dash of attitude to any outfit—perfect for festivals or days when sandals just won’t do.
How to Style Summer 2022’s Trending Shoes
Choosing a shoe is only half the process—styling them completes your look. Here’s how to rock 2022’s biggest trends:
- Pillow sandals: Pair with matching monochrome sets, or casual cotton sundresses for playful ease.
- Platforms and wedges: Style with high-waisted shorts, flared jeans, or bodycon dresses for a retro vibe.
- Neon sandals: Mix with neutral tops and bottoms, or boldly color-block for a maximalist style.
- Barely-there sandals: Best with slip dresses, silk skirts, or tailored slacks for city-chic minimalism.
- Lace-up sandals: Let the laces shine by pairing with midi skirts and above-the-ankle crop pants.
- Sporty sandals: Combine with athleisure—think oversized shirts, bike shorts, and crossbody bags.
- Fisherman sandals: Try with feminine floral dresses or utility jumpsuits.
- Western boots: Contrasted with flowy summer pieces or festival-ready denim.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What’s the most comfortable summer shoe trend for 2022?
A: Plush pillow sandals and sporty sandals are leading for comfort, thanks to their cushioned soles and supportive designs. Wedges offer stability with added height, making them a comfortable heeled choice.
Q: Which summer shoe trends work best for daytime events?
A: Flatforms, fisherman sandals, and colorful slides are perfect for long daytime activities. Their supportive soles and on-trend designs ensure style and comfort.
Q: Can I wear platforms or wedges to the beach?
A: Platforms and wedges can work for beachside events, but stick to espadrille or rubber-based styles to handle sand and uneven ground. Avoid thin spikes or delicate materials.
Q: Are neon and bold colors easy to style?
A: Absolutely! Neon sandals pair well with neutral clothing or can be matched with equally bright accessories for a head-turning look. So don’t shy away from making color the highlight of your outfit.
Q: Which sandals are best for traveling or lots of walking?
A: Sporty sandals, fisherman sandals, and plush pillow slides are excellent for extended wear—they offer solid support, grip, and all-day comfort while maintaining of-the-moment style.
Table: Summer 2022 Shoe Trends at a Glance
| Trend | Main Feature | When to Wear | Best Pairings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pillow-Plush Sandals | Cushiony comfort, thick straps | Everyday, casual outings | Lounge sets, sundresses |
| Tall Platforms | Ultra-high soles, 70s/90s vibes | Nights out, parties | Miniskirts, wide-leg pants |
| Neon/Bright Sandals | Vivid colors, minimalist shapes | Any occasion needing a pop | Neutral clothes, playful accessories |
| Barely-There Sandals | Thin straps, minimal design | Date nights, city days | Silky slips, tailored pants |
| Lace-Up Sandals | Wrap-around straps, gladiator feel | Vacations, street style | Cropped pants, midi skirts |
| Sporty Sandals | Chunky, practical details | Travel, errands, exploring | Athleisure, oversized shirts |
| Statement Shoes | Unique heels, embellishments | Special events, photoshoots | Simple outfits |
| Wedges | Raised sole, stable comfort | Day-to-night, beach parties | Maxi dresses, cropped jeans |
| Fisherman Sandals | Caged design, chunky soles | Urban strolls, casual days | Utility wear, summer dresses |
| Western Boots | Cowboy influence, fun hues | Festivals, style statements | Shorts, flowy skirts |
Whatever your summer plans may hold, these trends promise to add excitement, comfort, and style to your footwear collection. Let your shoes make the statement—they’ll be your favorite warm-weather companions in 2022 and beyond.
References
- https://www.cosmopolitanme.com/fashion/the-cutest-2022-shoe-trends
- https://www.nylon.com/fashion/summer-2022-sandal-trends
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/fashion/g39504271/summer-shoe-trends-2022/
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/fashion/style/a65086085/summer-sandals-to-wear-according-to-star-sign-horoscope/
- https://larroude.com/blogs/stories/cosmopolitan-7
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=grN-TbEsv_c
- https://www.cosmopolitanme.com/fashion/the-most-epic-fashion-trends-youll-be-seeing-everywhere-in-2022
- https://coconutjacks.com/reviews/product/1097024
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