Outdated Sandal Trends You Don't Want To Be Caught Wearing In Summer 2025

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With the first hints of summer hitting our weather forecasts, we're shopping for the sandals that will carry us all through the warmer months. "If you're pulling out your warm-weather wardrobe and wondering what still feels fresh (and what doesn't), you're not alone," personal stylist and image consultant Cynthia Kennedy exclusively tells Women. "Some old favorites are quietly retiring for 2025 — but don't worry, there are so many gorgeous, wearable styles stepping in to take their place."

Kennedy spoke with Women to weigh in on the outdated sandal trends to ditch this summer. Just a reminder: don't be too beholden to the whims of fashion trends, since personal style is the most timeless. "At the end of the day, the best sandals are the ones you actually want to wear. If you love something, you don't have to toss it just because it's trending out," says Kennedy. "But if you're ready to give your closet a little refresh, these newer styles are an easy way to update your outfits without overthinking it."

In recent years, the cool girls have been wearing delicate flip flops as a casual, go-with-everything option. But, according to Cynthia Kennedy, this style moment is on the way out. "The super-thin, flip-flop style thong sandals are starting to feel tired. 2025 is leaning into styles that feel a little more substantial, polished, and thoughtfully designed," she explains.

Like thong sandals, minimal slide styles can be thrown on with anything, just with a more elevated twist. "Simple, polished slides are an effortless upgrade for casual looks, and they transition easily from day to night," says Kennedy. Grab a pair like Project Cloud Genuine Leather Summer Sandals or Cole Haan Women's Flynn Logo Slide for shoes you can pair with everything this summer.

Neon colors might, traditionally, be a summer color go-to. But if you're looking for an on-trend shoe, you're better off steering clear of these aggressive shades. "Loud neons are losing their shine," says Cynthia Kennedy. "This year is all about softer, more wearable tones that still feel fresh but more elevated." That tracks closely with fashion's overall shift toward more classic, elevated aesthetics with a lot of rewear potential.

"Muted metallics add a subtle, grown-up shimmer that feels modern and timeless," says Kennedy. Shoes like the GORGLITTER Women's Metallic Strappy Flat Sandals or the Verdusa Women's Slip On Flat Sandals will accent your summer looks with a little pop of sparkle, but they'll also be way more versatile than anything from the neon color palette.

Early-aughts bohemian styles have enjoyed a resurgence lately, but the towering cork wedges are one style we're ready to let go of. "These had a great run, but they're feeling a little too casual and clunky next to the sleek, minimalist styles trending now," says Cynthia Kennedy.

Instead, opt for something a bit more classic and refined, like a sandal with a low kitten heel. These delicate styles are feminine and walkable. The subtle buckle detailing on these CUSHIONAIRE Milan Kitten Heel Sandals or the fun flower embellishment on these Sam Edelman Carla Heeled Sandals are flirty and add a touch of polish to any ensemble. "Tiny heels are having a major moment — giving you that little boost without sacrificing all-day comfort," says Kennedy.

Fashion trends are shifting toward polished, minimal styles. That means the intricate gladiator sandals that take all afternoon to lace up are giving way to sleeker styles. "Overly strappy, lace-up gladiators are falling out of favor," says Cynthia Kennedy. "Streamlined, simplified designs are taking over instead."

Instead, grab something more like Teva Women's Olowahu Flip-Flop or LUNA Trail Running Sandals. "Think sporty, but polished. Sleek Velcro-strap sandals are having a major glow-up," suggests Kennedy. They're slightly awkward, which is part of their charm, especially if you subscribe to the wrong shoe theory when upgrading your outfits. "They're practical for all-day wear but still look cool and intentional with elevated outfits."

Over the last several years, fashion has embraced clear vinyl as a modern neutral. Inspired by the PVC dancer heels created by the brand Pleaser, the advantage of these futuristic-looking styles is that they leave the talking to your ensemble. But more than a decade after New York Magazine called clear heels a season-defining trend, these styles are reading as more tired than timely. "The clear plastic trend has lost its novelty," says Cynthia Kennedy. "People are reaching for natural, rich materials that feel more refined and lasting."

Instead, sandals with dainty straps — like the CUSHIONAIRE Strappy Flat — will look stylish without pulling the focus away from your clothes. "Delicate, barely-there straps in neutrals are an easy way to stay chic without overcomplicating your outfit," says Kennedy.