Some day soon, we will wear real shoes again. When that time comes, we'll be opting for wooden-soled sandals: Surprisingly comfortable and effortlessly chic, they are our latest summer shoe obsession. From the classic, cost-friendly option by Dr. Scholl's to the ultra high-fashion choice of a modern Margiela platform, there's a pair for everyone and nearly every occasion. We tapped Caroline Maguire, fashion director at Shopbop, to learn more about the trend.
Marie Claire: Why is this style trending?
Caroline Maguire: It goes perfectly with the modern and versatile color palette and uber-feminine ready-to-wear styles of the season.
MC: How has it evolved?
CM: Designers have updated the classic style with pops of punchy color, bold prints, and even embellishment. Some platforms have reached new heights with exaggerated block heels, while others have stayed minimal in terms of silhouette.
MC: What should you consider when buying a pair?
CM: Comfort. How high both the arch and platform are is important.
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
MC: How do you style wooden slides?
CM: I love them with a midi-length, lightweight spring dress for the office or denim dad shorts with an easy T-shirt for weekends. For a more formal look, pair them with a brocade top or a silk dress.
MC: Why are wooden-soled shoes a “worth it” buy?
CM: They are a timeless, versatile, vintage-cool-again style.
Shop our favorite styles, below:
This story appears in the March 2020 issue of Marie Claire.
Megan DiTrolio is the editor of features and special projects at Marie Claire, where she oversees all career coverage and writes and edits stories on women’s issues, politics, cultural trends, and more. In addition to editing feature stories, she programs Marie Claire’s annual Power Trip conference and Marie Claire’s Getting Down To Business Instagram Live franchise.
-
Women on ‘The Hills’ Were Put In ‘Compromised Situations’ Like ‘Blood Sport,’ Cast Member Lo Bosworth Says
As compared to its predecessor, ‘Laguna Beach,’ Bosworth said ‘The Hills’ had a “much bigger impact from a drama and trauma perspective.”
By Rachel Burchfield Published
-
Emma Stone Has a Credit on Bestie Taylor Swift's 'Tortured Poet's Department'
Their decade-long friendship has been immortalized in Swift's discography for the second time.
By Quinci LeGardye Published
-
Kourtney Kardashian Barker Loves Her Postpartum Body, Thank You Very Much
After a body shaming troll tried to tear her down, she reminded them that her body “gave me my 3 big babies and my little baby boy.”
By Rachel Burchfield Published
-
Stylists on Why Leather Jackets Are a Great Investment
Fashion insiders weigh in on their favorite styles.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
Grown-Ups Are Rediscovering the Charm of Peter Pan Collars
From bibbed button-downs to round-neck leather jackets, this year's takes feel more sophisticated than sweet.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Sabrina Carpenter Wears Vintage Victoria's Secret Lingerie to Tease Upcoming Coachella Performance
Her look was pulled from the brand's 1997 archives.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
The Best Chunky Sandals Prove Minimalism Is Out
Another footwear trend embracing maximalism in 2024.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
The Brands to Shop for the Best Swimsuits
From size-inclusive labels to sustainable and designer options, this list is all-encompassing.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
The Best Vacation-Worthy Beach Dresses
From barely-there to playful fringe.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
Could a 'Shirt Sandwich' Pull You Out of a Fashion Rut?
The gourmet styling trick may help you fall back in love with your wardrobe.
By Emma Childs Published
-
The Best Spring Dresses Simplify Any Outfit Formula
Style this wardrobe staple for any occasion, from farmer's markets to formal affairs.
By Lauren Tappan Published