12 Excellent Pairs Of Tan Sandals To Wear Everywhere

A good pair of tan sandals are the bedrock of a summer wardrobe.

They are to the sunshine months what a sequinned party dress is to Christmas, a style pillar from which to build outfits around. In a year where the reigning colour is mocha mousse, a versatile design in earthy tan shades is all the more desirable.

When it comes to sandals, the best are those you can wear with multiple outfits, all day long. There is a special place in hell for a painful summer shoe, a time when we are supposed to be in a regular state of relaxed breeziness. We expect issues with a heel, but, honestly, I have little time for that now that there are so many comfortable options to be enjoyed. Blistered toes and swollen feet do not make for fun in the sun, which is why we have rounded up the best-looking, foot-friendly styles that you can wear from morning to evening without the smallest modicum of discomfort.

 

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Anything that hampers your enjoyment of your holiday is bad news, a beautiful but painful sandal just isn’t worth it. The fashion crowd have been embracing orthopaedic comfort for a few seasons now. Most of us will be aware of the rise of Crocs as a hot fashion commodity, and Birkenstocks are very much back on the map, thanks to collaborations with Manolo Blahnik, Jil Sander and Proenza Schouler. It is no longer the case that comfort needs to compromise aesthetic. Look for chunky soles, soft leather and open toes. I love this summer’s elevated flip-flop, but dividing toe posts are a demon for blisters so only invest if they’re made from good quality leather, and even then make sure you’ve tried them before debuting them on holiday. Our Style Director Rachel Story says her A.Emery Jalen pair are the exception to the rule.

 

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Fisherman sandals, made popular by The Row, are a great option as they offer support and structure – and the closed-toe will prevent your feet from becoming grubby if you’re planning a city break. Thicker straps tend to give more support than barely-there versions, and cushioned sole and molded footbeds will always serve you well. I know it seems counterintuitive to spend a lot on sandals given how little material they involve, but it pays to choose quality – you don’t want your sightseeing to be hampered by a broken strap. My go-to for a comfy summer shoe is Ancient Greek Sandals, the tan leather ages really well in the sun, and the soles are consistently super soft. I love a tan shade because of their timelessness and neutrality; there is no outfit they don’t look good with.

Here, we round up our 12 favourite pairs of tan sandals that will take you from breakfast to sightseeing to aperitivo hour and beyond.