The Best Black Sandals of the Season Are Elegant and Chic

The weather is heating up, flowers are blooming, and before you know it, sandal season is here. When shopping for the best black sandals to wear this summer, look for styles that can seamlessly integrate into your everyday lifestyle. Akin to a pair of sneakers, loafers, or heels—the sandal is as urgent and necessary to one’s wardrobe during peak warm weather as a pair of boots is during the fall.

Vogue’s Edit of the Best Black Sandals:

• The Sleek Slides: Aeyde Sonia leather slides, $325
• The Minimalist Flip Flip: The Row Ginza platform flip flips, $990
• The Big & Buckled: Birkenstock Arizona leather sandals, $200
• The Slingbacks: Toteme chunky sandal, $480
• The Modern Fisherman: JW Anderson leather fisherman sandals, $695
• The Strappy Sandals: Tory Burch multi-strap sandal, $298

The best black sandals this season hit on trends, while others remain a staple season-after-season. Elevated flip-flops continue to be a favorite this year, thanks to The Row’s best selling Ginza style, featuring an elevated footbed and sleek leather and suede detailing. If you live in a big city where daily commutes include plenty of facetime with the city’s gritty streets, consider a pair of fisherman sandals. Prada’s cage sandals feature a tough rubber outsole that can withstand a concrete jungle with ease. And if your docket of calendar events this year is looking extra full this summer—whether it’s birthdays, weddings, or other soirées, we highly recommend keeping an elegant black mule in your closet; they will go a long way and pair perfectly with all of your cocktail ensembles.

Ahead, the best black sandals to shop now and wear all season long.

Sleek Slides

Slide sandals are effortless. Style them with your favorite pair of jeans and lightweight cardigan on top for the weekend. For a high-fashion take, consider Balenciaga’s Cagole version. If you’re a minimalist at heart, Aeyde’s slides are no-fuss, handcrafted in Italy, and feature a chic square toe.

Elevated Thongs & Flip Flops

Chunky or ultra-slim, these are not your ordinary thong sandals and flip flops. The Row’s Ginza platform is a minimalist classic that pays for itself in dollars-per-wear. For slightly more affordable options, look to Proenza Schouler and Madewell for stylish renditions that can be worn with everything from sleek tailored trousers to billowy mididresses during the dog days of summer.

Big & Buckled

For those seeking black sandals with a punchier statement, consider a pair of big, buckled sandals. We love this pair from Chloé featuring elegant gold detailing. For a versatile option that spans all ages, Birkenstock’s Arizona is a fan-favorite for a reason, featuring a comfortable footbed and signature buckled straps.

Chic Slingbacks

If you need a bit more support in your sandal, a slingback is a fantastic option—no need to reach for a dad sandal, these are elegant and sophisticated. Toteme’s chunky sandal features an elegant twisted design made of linen and nappa leather and a comfortable velcro strap, perfect for the city dweller-turned-beach comber on the weekends.

The Modern Fisherman

Sturdy and reliable, a fisherman sandal is perfect for those who need a pair of sandals that offer a bit more protection around the toes, but will keep them breezy during even the most sweltering heat. Take a cue from the runway and add JW Anderson’s fisherman sandals to your cart this summer. Style them with your favorite denim skirt and a white tank and you’re golden.

Sweet & Strappy

We love a strappy sandal during the summertime for dressier occasions. Whether it’s date night or a special birthday, they add an elevated touch to your look. Saint Laurent’s Gigua sandals are a worthy investment and will take you straight into fall and winter when paired with sheer tights, just as Mr. Laurent intended.

The Elegant Mule

For those who need a heel, but not in the mood for a stiletto, a black mule can be your savior. Comfortable to wear and effortless when on, they can add a sophisticated touch to any ensemble. Shop Khaite’s Marion mules in black sheer or Prada’s in a soft satin. These are the black sandals you’ll wear for any upcoming weddings.

The Heeled Sandal

These might not be your everyday sandals, but with their timeless silhouettes, you’ll reach for these for years to come. Jil Sander’s strappy iteration has become a must-have this season; Saint Laurent’s take is sleek and minimalist. For those who prefer thicker straps, look to Veronica Beard and Aeyde for on-point picks you can walk (or stand!) at least a few hours in.