Trade Your Flip-Flops for Chic, Comfy Summer Footwear

By Amy E. Goodman
Author of Wear This, Toss That!

This time of year, nothing feels better than a pair of flip-flops. But unless you're a lifeguard, rarely do these summer staples translate to the work place. Here's a list of my go-to casual alternatives, from cute flats to trendy platforms.

Wedges: If there's a celebratory shoe this season, the wedge is it. Designers have embraced a medium to low heel, refreshing news for those of us who teeter on stilettos, as platforms offer greater stability plus height.
-Look for streamlined classic styles in neutral hues like Seychelles' Eye to Eye ($110, www.piperlime.com).
-Messeca, Cecilia ($119, www.piperlime.com)
-If your workplace is more creative and has a dress code to match, it's impossible to resist the grommets, buckle and delicious caramel hue of the Ash wedge, Lucy ($200, www.piperlime.com).

Thongs: Can you wear thong sandals to work? This shoe parallels the flip-flop with its breezy, barely-there look, but can be dressier when constructed with leather and fancy hardware. It depends on the rules of your workplace-some thong slingbacks (with a heel strap) might work-but most should save this sexy little number for the weekend.
-Lucky Brand, Caryl ($53, www.zappos.com)
-Lauren by Ralph Lauren, Alexa ($59, www.zappos.com)

Peep Toes: I rarely meet a peep-toe pair I don't love, and because of their versatility they can go from work to play-from crisp suits straight to strappy dresses for a night on the town. Skip the sheer stockings: it's best to go bare.

Flats: Think these cute staples fall… flat? I beg you to consider the incredible diversity of this model, from embellished to peep-toe, then report back. Play with trends like bows, patterns, and cutout detailing. If you avoid flip-flops because you dislike exposing your toesies, a closed flat can be your best warm-weather alternative.
-Born, Lovely Flat ($84.95, www.nordstrom.com)
-Report, Burna Flat ($49.95, www.nordstrom.com)
-All Black, Perforated Bow Flat ($118.95, www.nordstrom.com)
-All Black, More Puzzle Flat ($109.95, www.nordstrom.com)

Snakeskin. Simply put, this style encompasses all styles from the aforementioned wedges to flats, adding instant sophistication and summer compatibility.
-Christian Siriano for Payless Kimono Flat ($34.99, payless.com)

Espadrilles. Don't write off this style thinking it's limited to just spaghetti-strap sundresses. A modern espadrille, such as tweed juxtaposed against a roped wedge heel, is an example of opposites attracting. This can lighten up the look of a traditional suit ensemble with just the right hint of summer.
-Charles by Charles David, Ruckus ($135, www.piperlime.com)

Clogs. Don't set foot into the workplace with these: They're too clunky and noisy a shoe, and one that doesn't particularly showcase the glory of your foot, either.

What are your favorite summer shoes?

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