I’m On the Hunt for the Perfect Black Sandals–These Are the Best Pairs I’ve Found So Far

Unsurprisingly given my line of work, I’m quite specific when it comes to clothes. As an anti-impulse shopper, I will only buy something once I’ve mulled it over for at least a few days, if not weeks. This summer? I’m on the hunt for the best black sandals.

Chanel’s strappy dad sandals are the dream pair (with a price tag to match), so I set out to find styles that had similar appeal–two straps, an ankle support, and a chunky, sturdy sole–but that, crucially, did not veer into designer copycat territory.

Fashion flip-flops and fisherman sandals have caught my eye, too. Pairs with a little bit of height are particularly enticing, given that I’m 5ft 1ins. Currently vying for a spot at the top of my wish list: Prada’s sleek leather slides; The Row’s caged sandals, and Loewe’s holiday-ready flip-flops.

Below are the best black sandals I’ve found so far this summer.

Slide Away

Slides are a simple–yet effective–footwear option for the warmer months ahead.

Porte & Paire crocheted leather sandals

Ferragamo Knot Leather Sandals

Isabel Marant Lennyo Embellished Suede Sandals

St. Agni fine strap leather slides

Thongs and Flip-Flops

Brands including The Row, St. Agni, and Loewe make a strong case for fashion flip-flops. These are eons away from rubbery poolside styles.

Totême croc effect flip-flops

Ancient Greek Sandals Flip-Flops

Practical Yet Stylish

For sandals that deliver on style and comfort, look no further. Prada’s padded two-strap slides are a standout.

Birkenstock Milano big buckle sandals

Prada Nappa Leather Padded Sandals

Vince Gemini crinkled patent leather sandals

Teva Universal Ceres Sandals

Fisherman Sandals

Caged sandals have long been a staple among the style set. This season, we’ve got our eye on Grenson’s Queenie pair.

The Row Fisherman Sandals

Grenson Queenie Fisherman Sandals

Hereu Pesca Cut-Out Sandals

Dragon Diffusion Caged Leather Sandals

Strappy Heels

Plan ahead for your next summer event with a pair of versatile heeled sandals.

Khaite Marion leather sandals

Saint Laurent Clara satin sandals

Manolo Blahnik Callamu 50 Patent Leather Mules

Neous Timir suede sandals

Fashion Flatforms

Stacked sandals give you height without the hassle–the perfect summer alternative to heels.

Ganni Smock Platform Sandals

& Other Stories chunky leather sandals

Dries Van Noten knotted leather platform sandals

The Row Ginza leather platform sandals