7 Outdated Sandal Trends To Step Away From In 2026

As summer 2026 approaches, it's time to revisit your sandal collection, because we're heading in a whole new direction. While sandals from the last two seasons were doused in embellishments or chunky bottoms, à la steep, thick platforms and fisherman sandals with lug bottoms, comfort is now taking center stage, and we're so here for it. Because, let's be honest, all you need is one bad blister from a new pair of sandals in June to throw off your entire summer.

"We're now seeing more of a focus on function, wearability, and longevity, and this ties into the increasing trend of putting more thought into what we're buying," personal stylist, image consultant, and Creator of Your Style Transformation Academy, Cynthia Kennedy, exclusively tells Women. As Kennedy explains, quality over quantity is starting to reign supreme more than ever. In other words, it's time to transform your wardrobe to embrace the slow fashion movement, and you might as well start with your sandals.

Because it's a far better investment to buy quality sandals that last over ones that are merely a flash in the pan, there are quite a few sandal trends to step away from in 2026. "The major shift right now is the pivot away from bulk," says Kennedy. "In 2026, we are shrinking the soles and focusing on elegance." After all, sandals that are balanced and refined never go out of style, and that's exactly the point when quality becomes your priority.

Unless your name is Dolly Parton and you have a long list of philanthropic efforts under your belt, step away from the overly embellished sandals. "Anything with loads of rhinestones, enormous buckles, or overly flashy from 2024 and 2025 are becoming less popular," Cynthia Kennedy tells Women, exclusively. "We're moving toward looks that are softer, prettier, and more sophisticated." If you want to have a little somethin' extra on your sandals, Kennedy suggests the BCBGeneration Uleema Sandal or the Madden Girl Charlotte Sandal as evolved options. Both sandals bring a playfulness to the equation, but in a more polished way.

For some people, being able to afford a designer sandal and letting the world know that it's indeed designer is important, but it doesn't mean that's the most fashionable route. That's why logo-heavy sandals need to be kicked to the curb in 2026. "The mood is shifting toward refined looks with elevated details over obvious logos or branding," Cynthia Kennedy tells Women. If Kimberly Guilfoyle can give up the cringy fashion trend of too many logos, so can you. Besides, a designer sandal with a low profile is the very definition of refinement, and that's what we're going for this year.

Not only were strappy sandals big in ancient Rome, but over the years, they've become a trend that comes and goes — especially whenever a season has a full revival of Y2K fashion trends. But in 2026, strappy sandals are out. "Those personality-free thin strappy sandals had their time to shine, but aren't usually comfortable or flattering for daily life," says Cynthia Kennedy, adding that among more structured sandals, they'll look outdated. For a modernized strappy sandal alternative, Kennedy suggests the Azalea Wang Keleder Sandal and the Azalea Wang Tagas Wedge Sandal instead.

As low-profile silhouettes take over, it can't be stated enough just how much chunky and bulky sandals are out in 2026. "Instead of a chunky slide or sandal, look for a sleek mule in a buttery soft leather, suede, or metallic finish," says Cynthia Kennedy, adding that these aren't just comfortable, but far more versatile, as they can be dressed up or down. When it comes to mules, Kennedy points to the Cole Haan Piper Loafer and the Aerosoles Amara Mule. Each has just enough height to channel comfort and style.

As great as rubber flip-flops are when using a public shower or getting a pedicure, they're not meant for everyday. Similar to the outdated heel trends to step away from in 2026, Cynthia Kennedy says it's all about easy, intentional choices. What that means in terms of flip-flops is that we're moving toward kitten-heels or elevated thong sandals. "Even a backless loafer is just as easy to wear, but looks a little more thought out," says Kennedy, who recommends the Calvin Klein Portia Sandal and the Vince Camuto Runea Sandal as alternatives.

Although fisherman sandals were officially declared outdated in 2024, some still tried to keep the trend alive. However, since we're ditching bulk in 2026, it's time to move on from these sandals for good, as that lug sole looks especially dated next to the clean lines of current sandal trends. "For a little height that doesn't hurt your feet, choose low block heels or unusually shaped sculptural heels," Cynthia Kennedy exclusively tells Women, suggesting either the Jeffrey Campbell Latus Sandal or the Macy's BCBG Sandal. "They feel modern, add personality, but don't look like you're trying too hard," says Kennedy.

As Cynthia Kennedy exclusively tells Women, in 2024 and 2025, we saw a lot of extreme sandal styles. One of which was the minimal, barely-there sandal that offered zero foot support. Although they were cute in their simplicity, the human foot needs more than just a flat bed that ignores foot arches. "[In 2026], the silhouettes are still modern, but they're more wearable and comfortable because they offer improved foot support, softer fabrics, and are designed for actual use, not just for looking good in a picture," says Kennedy.