While it may feel slightly premature to be looking ahead to summer, my job as a fashion editor is to stay one step ahead and share with you with the fresh, new trends we expect to see in the upcoming season. And right now the weather is certainly shifting and we’re seeing grey skies less often, giving us the opportunity to welcome the sun and warm weather dressing with open arms.
With a new season comes a new colour palette, and if there’s one thing about summer style, it its vibrancy. Winter is synonymous with darker, moodier hues while spring starts to reintroduce those lighter shades and pastels. Summer has the added benefit of ticking off both, and the key shoe colour trends this season feel fresh, refined and versatile—all colours that can easily be introduced into any wardrobe and worn in a variety of different ways.
(Image credit: Launchmetrics, Carven)
One thing I’ve noted this summer is the mix of classic, reliable neutral tones as well as brighter, more vivid hues being introduced into the spectrum. Brown, for example, is a classic summer shoe colour trend thanks to its versatility—whether tan or chocolate brown, there’s such an array of shades that it feels like a failsafe option that will never go out of style. But equally this summer, pastel blue shoes feel like a hot topic, a refreshing change from neon brights. There’s just something about soft, pastel hues that make an outfit feel so summery.
Wondering what I found in my research for the biggest summer shoe colour trends to grace 2026? Keep scrolling to see the five of the shoe colour trends I predict will be everywhere this season.
1. Black
(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight / Tod’s)
Style Notes: While some people avoid heavy black when it comes to summer, for me, there’s nothing more chic. Whether it’s finishing an all black look or used to ground vibrant brights, there’s just something inherently stylish and timeless about black that will always remain in my rotation. Seen on the runways of Max Mara and Tod’s, black sandals are a firm favourite this summer.
Shop the Trend:
MANGO
Metallic Detail Strap Sandal
Mango is my go-to for shoes that look so much more expensive than they are.
Mint Velvet
Luna Black Slingback Leather Sandals
The subtle white contrast stitching makes these sandals feel so elevated.
MANOLO BLAHNIK
Maysale 50 Buckled Suede Mules
The Maysale is one of Manolo Blahnik’s most iconic styles.
ALOHAS
Rosalind Black Leather Ballet Flats
I own these in burgundy and the black is next on my list.
COS
Multi-Strap Suede Sandals
I love the combination of suede and leather.
Massimo Dutti
Strappy Heeled Sandals With Embellished Detail
Toteme
Leather Asymmetric Ballerinas
A pointed ballet flat is such a versatile option.
2. Red
(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight / Ralph Lauren)
Style Notes: Red has been such a prominent colour trend over the last few seasons and I don’t anticipate it slowing down any time soon. This season, Givenchy, Alberta Ferretti and Tory Burch solidified that whether you opt for a bold bright red or more of a muted iteration, it’s a strong shoe colour trend to have on your radar.
Shop the Trend:
Ancient Greek Sandals
Saionara Jelly Clear Red
A simple flip flop to pack for your summer getaway.
Adidas
Handball Spezial Sneakers
Adidas Spezial’s are some of my comfiest trainers.
Vicenza
Serena Strappy Sandals
A designer dupe at a fraction of the cost.
Reformation
Pina Flat Sandal
A strappy sandal is the ultimate chic option.
Ganni
Feminine Buckle Ballerinas
One of Ganni’s bestselling styles.
Massimo Dutti
Mid-Heel Sandals With Toe Divider
So chic paired with denim shorts or a floaty dress.
Alaïa
Suede-Trimmed Fishnet Ballet Flats
Alaïa’s most iconic shoe.
3. White
(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight / Michael Kors)
Style Notes: When it comes to a summer wardrobe, there’s nothing that brings a crisp, fresh feel quite as well as white. Such a clean, considered shoe adds polish to any look, and is such a versatile option that can be paired with so many different outfits. In all honestly, no summer colour trend piece would be complete without it.
Shop the Trend:
Miu Miu
Matelassé Nappa Leather Slides
A white sandal is such a good option to invest in, you’ll bring them out year after year.
AEYDE
Melody Leather Flip Flops
Aeyde have perfected sleek minimalistic styles.
MANGO
Kitten-Heel Sandals With Strap
A wardrobe staple you’d get so much wear out of.
Prada
Patent Leather Slingback Pumps
One of Prada’s most well-known pairs of shoes.
Dear Frances
Balla Mesh, White
A mesh ballet flat and summer go hand-in-hand.
Neous
Irena Satin Slingbacks
The lace detail is such a cute finish.
ASOS DESIGN
Havana Toe Thong Kitten Heel Sandals
A heeled thong sandal makes an outfit feel so elevated.
4. Brown
(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight / Zimmermann)
Style Notes: As a self-confessed neutral devotee, brown remains in my wardrobe all year round. Seeing it so prevalent in the shoe trends on the Zimmermann and Ulla Johnson runways was reassurance that warm earth tones aren’t going anywhere fast, and whether you opt for a tan or deep chocolate, there’s an array of shades to ensure it will work with any outfit.
Shop the Trend:
H&M
Kitten-Heeled Sandals
Brown suede is still such a big trend.
M&S
Leather Flat Mule Sandals
M&S are my go-to high-street brand right now.
ASOS DESIGN
Lawn Premium Suede Ballets
A brown suede ballet flat is one of my most worn shoes.
Jimmy Choo’s new summer collection is just irresistible.
ZARA
Criss-Cross Strap Flat Sandals
This pair went straight in my basket.
YSL
Tribute Mules in Smooth Leather
Brown sandals will never go out of trend and so worth the investment.
& Other Stories
Strappy Leather Sandals
There’s just something about these that feel fresh and new.
5. Pastel Blue
(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight / Missoni)
Style Notes: While pastels in summer are nothing new, they are a classic for a reason and this season, blue is taking centre stage. It feels like a refreshing new colour option in the mix and is one that brings a soft, light finish to any outfit. It’s such a versatile option, so I would recommend viewing it as a neutral when it comes to styling—you’ll be surprised how many other colours it can work with.
Shop the Trend:
Suede ballet flats are an essential for my wardrobe.
Reformation
Sonoma Flat Sandal
AQUAZZURA
Kahlo 50 Embroidered Leather
No-one does occasion shoes quite like Aquazzura.
Bobbies
Miles – Cold Blue
A pastel blue trainer is so wearable and versatile.
ZARA
Leather Heeled Mules
Birkenstock
Arizona Sandals Big Buckle
I couldn’t be without my Birkenstocks in the summer and this pastel blue colour has caught my eye.
Jil Sander
Cage Leather Sandals
Jil Sander shoes are my absolute weakness.
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