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Summer shoe trends are ever-evolving. While some years prioritize ultra-slim silhouettes, others are all about bolder designs. In 2023, it seems we’re falling into the latter camp, with many ‘90s and early ‘00s styles reappearing on the fashion scene. As much as we love to see platform heels and chunky sneakers making a comeback, we also can’t stop scrolling through the puffy sandal trend swarming TikTok. With over 40.7 million views, it’s safe to say the airy silhouette will be everywhere this summer. To get in on the look, consider one of the pairs of puffy sandals we’re loving right now.
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The Vionic Kalina Slide marries two of the biggest sandal trends of the year—braided straps and puffy accents—into one must-have silhouette. Best of all, these sandals, which are sold in six colors in women’s whole and half shoe sizes 5 to 11, are ergonomically designed to offer the utmost arch support, so they’re not only cute, they’re good for your feet, too!
The Beek Sugarbird Slide Sandal, which is available in women’s shoe sizes 5 to 11, is sold in 11 fun colors perfect for summer. They’re made of leather and feature a memory-foam footbed with a molded arch that makes them feel much more supportive than you’d guess at first glance. Just keep in mind that these sandals are designed for narrow to medium-width feet, so they’re not the best option for wider soles. Additionally, if you typically wear a half size, go up for a more stable fit.
Give your height a boost with the Cougar Soprato Luxmotion Leather Water-Repellent Sandal. Sold in four colors in women’s whole and half shoe sizes 6 to 11, these cushy slides feature a colorblock appeal thanks to contrast stitching and a coordinating sole. Best of all, they’re water-friendly, so you can wear them to the pool, beach, or out by the lake without fear of messing up your new favorite sandals.
The Shade & Shore Andrea Sandals look so posh you’d never guess they cost less than $30—which is likely why they’ve pretty much earned 5-star reviews across the board. The puff-braid silhouette is sold in solid black and a black-and-white floral pattern, in women’s sizes 6 to 12.
The Marc Fisher Olita Flat Slide Sandal is sold in six colors, including two neutrals, two neons, a metallic, and a mauve shade. Available in women’s whole and half shoe sizes 5 to 12, these gathered puff sandals have a more elevated appearance, which makes them just as perfect for beachside attire as they do with a date night ‘fit.
For a more casual look, reach for the Olukai Hila Slides, which are available in women’s shoe sizes 5 to 11. Sold in black, navy, and tan, these puffy, anatomically-contoured criss-cross slides are water-friendly, making them a summer staple for pool days, lake getaways, and beach vacays alike.
The Sorel Viibe Twist Slide Sandal offers a more athletic take on the puffy sandal trend thanks to its molded rubber platform sole. In addition to being sold in three neutral shades, the sandal, available in women’s whole and half shoe sizes 5 to 12, is also offered in a vibrant tangerine hue, which just so happens to be one of the hottest colors of summer.
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The A New Day Prim Platform Sandal, sold in black and white in women’s whole and half shoe sizes 5 to 12, offers another way to blend the puff and braid footwear trends of 2023. Made of faux leather, the sandals look high-end without the exorbitant price tag to match. No wonder shoppers are awarding the 2-inch platform sandals such high praise!
$35 at Target
Looking for a puffy sandal you can throw on to run casual errands? Consider the Ugg Sport Yeah Slingback Sandal. Sold in five colors in women’s whole shoe sizes 5 to 12, the rubber-like sandals are super lightweight, not to mention fully waterproof. Additionally, they feature an adjustable stretchy heel strap for optimal comfort and security.
If you’re in the market for a statement-making neutral puffy sandal, be sure to check out the Seychelles Sirens Sandal. Sold in black, tan, and cream shades, the synthetic platform sandals feature a 1.5” heel height with a bold braided upper. Thanks to their basic colors and minimalist-yet-head-turning design, these sandals go with just about everything. These slides are available in women’s whole and half shoe sizes 6 to 11.
Puffy heels are a thing, too, you know. The Schutz Fairy High Nappa Leather Sandal, sold in women’s whole and half shoe sizes 5 to 11, is a great (not to mention comfortable) way to step into the trend. Designed with a chunkier heel and flexible gathered puff toe straps, the high-heel sandals will quickly become your summer go-to’s—especially with metallic gold and vivid Flame Orange colors to choose from. Of course, if you prefer neutrals, they come in tan leather and cream raffia options, too.
$77 at Schutz (Save $51)
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Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.