Though the summer shoes of choice stay pretty consistent year to year — MVPs like Birkenstocks and Converse are unlikely to fall out of favour — each season there are a few styles that rise to the top. Mules have been having a major moment, appearing on the feet of the chicest street style stars (Laura Harrier and Margot Robbie among them) while the classic thong has been enjoying a surprising renaissance. The humble Havaiana has been levelled up, and New York’s style set is wearing them with everything from jeans to bloomers. 

 In the spirit of moving beyond the classics and dipping our toes into some sweet new styles, we’ve curated six of the biggest shoe styles right now, as spotted on the beach and on the streets. Here, the trending styles to shop this month that we know you’ll love all summer long.  

 Fancy flip flops 

The poolside staple has had a glow up. This season, classic rubber thongs are moving aside and leather, bedazzled and brightly-hued flip flops are taking centre stage. They’re as easy to wear as the classics but make the beach-to-bar transition a little more chic.  

Kylen Black Leather, $139.95 from Steve Madden, Lower Ground 2 

Mules 

Much like thongs, you can’t deny the low-key beauty of the slip-on mule. Whether they’re flat or heeled, they make a great summer shoe for their versatility and breeziness. We’d pair Jimmy Choo’s knotted kitten heel with a pair of baggy jeans and a white tank.  

Avenue 50 Mule, $1275 from Jimmy Choo, Ground Level 

Futuristic sneakers  

Kind of like the Dad sneakers of last season, only this time they’re a little sleeker and more modern. A great unisex shoe, the futuristic sneaker is right at home worn with relaxed shorts and slouchy socks. 

X-Trainer, $630 from Kenzo, Ground Level 

Flatforms 

The flatform is the ultimate fake-it-till-you-make-it shoe. It looks super fancy, but in reality your foot is practically flat, which means you can wear them day and night sans blisters and aching feet. These ones from Gorman are a fun nod to the ’70s. 

Ziggy Platform, $63.20 from Gorman, Level 1 

Strappy kitten heels  

No one wants to teeter around in sky-high stilettos at a summer barbecue, but sometimes you do need a dressier shoe to elevate a flowy maxi dress. Country Road’s Demi heel — a strappy slip on with a mid-size heel — is the perfect addition to your summer shoe rotation. 

Demi Heel, $199 from Country Road, Ground Level 

Athleisure sandals  

If you’re planning a summer on the move — we’re talking bush walks to the beach and days spent exploring the city’s bustling cafes — you’re going to need a pair of sandals that are lightweight, comfortable and go with your entire wardrobe. Such a thing does exist, and they’re Camper’s Match sandals. 

Match Sandals, $175 from Camper, Lower Ground 2