Sizzling temperatures are on the horizon, which means I’m on a mission to elevate my warm-weather corporate style. I’ve got plenty of crisp button-down shirts, floaty linen dresses, and tailored trousers. There's just one summer work outfit essential left: A lineup of trendy shoes I can wear from nine-to-five.
I didn't have to look much further than other stylish commuters for inspiration. While traveling into the office from Brooklyn to Manhattan last week, I spotted countless city dwellers stepping into major summer footwear trends. Some opted for statement-making shoes, like retro jelly flats, beachy fisherman sandals, and free-spirited mahogany wedges. Others kept it simple with neutral-toned boat shoes, sleek strappy sandals, and streamlined sneakers.
Determined to follow in their footsteps, I’ve curated an edit of 15 summer work shoes that have just as much corporate It-girl energy. Ahead, discover everything from casual options that’ll pair well with Bermuda shorts and T-shirts, to upscale alternatives that’ll enhance shirt dresses and pencil skirts. These office-ready styles will get the job done.
If you’re looking for shoes that’ll last for the long haul, I’d recommend these Sam Edelman slingbacks. Crafted with a straightforward silhouette and a versatile shade, they're a classic that will last through every job change on your résumé.
There’s no escaping the sight of jelly sandals this summer, even at the office. The ‘90s-inspired trend has officially made its way back into fashion’s warm embrace, so go ahead and test-drive the old-school look with this cherry red version from Zara.
With a slip-on silhouette, Open Edit’s slide sandals embody ease. You’ll want to rely on these shoes when you’re not in the mood to assemble a complicated work outfit.
These woven mules will prove useful when temperatures soar above 80 degrees.
Dip your toe into the fisherman aesthetic with these caged sandals from Vagabond Shoemakers. If you’d like to dial up the maritime appeal, team your look with a Breton striped shirt and khaki pants.
Hop on board the boat shoe trend with Rothy’s Double Bit Drivers. I’m partial toward the cream shade for summer, but these shoes are also offered in black, blue, and a neutral checkered print.
These days, I can’t ride the New York City subway without spotting at least one pair of mesh flats. Given that I’m easily influenced, I’ll be buying into the barely-there style with Dolce Vita’s Rodni shoes.
Whether you’re running between meetings or commuting into the office, your summer work shoes should be comfortable. So, ditch your sky-high heels for these cushioned platform sandals from Zara.
What I love most about Chloé’s ballet flats is that they’re made with a delicate scalloped trim. This sculptural design will spice up any dull office uniform.
Looking for a pair of easygoing white sneakers? Consider Veja’s Campos, which have become an instant hit among fashion insiders.
From afar, Mango’s pink slingbacks might seem fairly simple. But take a closer look and you’ll find intricate details like tonal beads, mesh fabric, and a tapered kitten heel.
Sperry’s navy-colored boat shoes are suitable for laid-back workdays, but you can also wear them for casual summer outings beyond the office. Invest in these lace-ups if you need your footwear to work overtime.
Boho-inspired styles are staging a comeback this summer, and wedges are leading the charge. Pull on this pair from Madewell to embrace a vintage vibe.
I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again: Butter yellow is here to stay. Play into the viral color trend with Schutz’s sumptuous leather sandals.
I fell for the Adidas Sambas craze last year, and I’ve been wearing these shoes to work ever since. During the summer, I’ll balance them out with an elegant dress and a sophisticated laptop bag for a sporty-chic edge.
