The shoes you’ll live in this summer

From airy slides to bright raffia sandals, Summer 2025 is all about keeping your footwear light, breathable, and chic.

Apr 09, 2025 | by Santya Ahuja

As temperatures rise and our calendars fill with beach escapes, al fresco brunches, and everything in between, it’s time to reimagine your footwear lineup. Summer 2025 is all about going light—on your feet and on the planet—with shoes that blend comfort, breathability, and style. From fisherman sandals and raffia textures, to sleek leather slides and canvas classics, this season’s best pairs are designed for living (and walking) in the moment. Here's a breakdown of the styles and our top picks.

Airiness is the order of the day. Think open toes, breezy silhouettes, and natural textures that speak to both coastal getaways and everyday errands. Leading the pack are fisherman sandals—the utilitarian-meets-minimalist staple that’s having a major resurgence. Whether flat or with a platform sole, they offer the perfect in-between for those who want something practical without compromising on cool.

Then there’s the quiet confidence of thong sandals—but make no mistake, this isn’t your flip-flop moment. This summer, they’ve been reimagined in luxe leathers and elevated details, like Loewe’s airy open slides that strike the perfect balance between effortless and elegant. Chloé’s Woody canvas slides, back in updated colours, continue to be a favourite among those who like their fashion to do the talking while still staying grounded.

When it comes to materials, raffia is the moment. From Valentino’s woven flats to playful, colourful sandals popping up across homegrown and global labels, this artisanal texture lends an instant vacation vibe—even if you’re just wearing them to the neighbourhood café. Natural, breathable, and textural, raffia works in both muted tones and juicy summer shades like lemon yellow, tangerine, and sky blue.

Though, not every summer shoe has to be open-toe. Enter espadrilles—the eternally chic, warm-weather staple that offers just the right amount of coverage without feeling stuffy. Perfect with floaty dresses or oversized denim, they’re equal parts beachy and city-smart. And for a more structured look, lightweight loafers in sorbet shades and perforated leather offer a breezy alternative to classic styles, making them perfect for cooler evenings or dressier summer outings.

Summer 2025’s footwear edit is a lesson in ease—without ever slipping into boring. Whether you're a minimalist at heart or someone who leans maximalist with textures and colours, there’s a sandal (or slide, or espadrille) that fits your vibe. The best part? These shoes are made for more than walking—they’re made for living in, one sunny step at a time.

Toteme Leather thong sandals, ₹33,450