The Best Chunky Sandals Prove Minimalism Is Out

“Just about every footwear designer is designing a pair of chunky sole sandals at the moment,” says Bibeau. Although The Row isn't considered a footwear designer exclusively, their investment-worthy Ginza platform flip-flops are a coveted chunky sole style. Why? They're so versatile that fitting them into your wardrobe will be seamless. For a casual day out and about, consider styling yours with a white-T shirt, baggy jeans, and a leather tote to match.

You don’t have to pay a fortune to have fun with chunky sandals. Teva’s Universal Crochet Flatform sandals cost only $80, and it's a bonus that they’re sustainably designed using recycled textiles. This sandal is also super comfortable with a cushy insole and adjustable velcro crochet straps so you can adjust them to your foot.

Add a cheery pop of color to your wardrobe with Free People’s Joni Slingback Sandals in this denim-looking leather fabric—and one of spring's trending colors, pale blue. Owners of these sandals have been raving about how comfortable they are.

“Even when I play with trends, I still need them to live on the practical side,” says Tully. “I love the look of leather because it brings a classic vibe.” This pair of leather pair of chunky sandals hits on both notes.

On the Spring 2024 runways, designers embellished chunky sandals in various ways (Junya Watanabe used buckles, Giambattista Valli showcased rhinestones, and Adeam put bows on full display). If you want to go the embellished route too, try Tory Burch’s Kira Slingbacks, adorned with sleek gold-toned hardware.

When you think of your typical sandals, strappy designs and thong-like silhouettes might come to mind, but don't forget about fisherman sandals. They're a tried-and-true classic in our expert fashion opinion, especially worn in a neutral shade that can serve a range of looks. They're also a great addition to your spring work outfits.

If you’re usually on your feet all day, consider investing in a pair of classic Birkenstock Milano sandals. These chunky sole sandals feature a contoured footbed crafted with supple leather, so you’ll feel like you're walking on clouds.

Tully mentions that in addition to leather, she loves the look of woven raffia on a chunky sandal. Woven raffia is a quintessential summer fabric, so there are endless styling options during the warm weather months. If you're heading to the beach, wear Isabel Marant’s chunky sandals with a breezy beach dress. On your way to lunch in the park, swap your beach dress for a casual tank top and a slip skirt.

These Vagabond platform sandals play with proportions, contrasting tiny straps with a chunky sole. The design itself is similar to crossover sandals that appeared practically everywhere on the Spring 2024 Fashion Week runways (Collina Strada, Emporio Armani, and Giambattista Valli had them, to name a few). We’re guessing this design will continue gaining momentum throughout the summer.

Chunky sole sandals already have a bit of height, but Melissa's Posh shoes will fit the bill if you’re looking for an even more elevated look. These shoes emulate a classic platform heel design (a trending style according to the Spring 2024 runways). They’re also offered in black and yellow, but we prefer this powdery shade of pink—after all, the girlhood aesthetic is still going strong.

Back in 2022, Kendall Jenner posted an Instagram picture of herself in a Loewe printed maxi dress and this pair of Dries Van Noten platform sandals. The post has since been deleted, but these chunky sandals live on. And for good reasons—the playful thong-shaped straps will give any outfit an effortless '70s boost.

Although chunky sole sandals boast an inherently bold quality, some designs out there are a bit more subdued. Take this St. Agni’s Mio Leather sandals, which feature a sleek black exterior and a slight platform sole. If a big old chunky sole is simply too much for you, this is a great alternative to the trend.