Summer Shoes for Women

Which shoes are suitable for women in summer?

In summer, shoes need to do one thing above all: feel light and comfortable to wear. At Tom Tailor you'll find open and closed styles suited to the warmer months, from relaxed beach days to summer evenings in the city.

Sandals are the classic choice for hot days. They let plenty of air reach your feet, are lightweight and easy to style. Sneakers are ideal for longer walks and active summer days, giving your feet support while staying comfortable in the heat. Loafers are closed but still lightweight and effortless to pair with a summer outfit.

What all good summer shoes have in common: they wear without rubbing, hold their shape even in the heat and take you from morning to evening.

Which materials keep your feet cooler?

The material makes a big difference to how comfortable a shoe feels in warm weather. Leather and faux leather with perforations or open sections allow air to circulate and sit comfortably against the skin. Textile uppers such as mesh or knit structures on sneakers are breathable and help keep feet feeling cool. Soft, textured insoles are more comfortable than smooth synthetic surfaces, which tend to feel warmer. Open styles like sandals call for very little compromise on breathability.

The materials used in your chosen shoe are always listed in the product description.

Summer shoes for wide feet: what to look out for

For wide feet, the most important factor is a roomy toe box. The front part of the shoe should offer enough space without squeezing or pinching.

• Sandals with adjustable straps can be customised in width and fit, adapting to the shape of your foot.
• Sneakers with a wider cut offer more room across the toe and ball of the foot.
• Loafers with soft uppers give a little and are less likely to rub.

A practical tip: in summer it's worth going up half a size for wide feet, as feet can swell slightly in the heat.

What heel types are available in summer shoes?

Summer shoes come in many variations, from flat to heeled. What works best for you depends on what you have planned.

• Flat sole: Sandals and sneakers without a heel offer the most stability for active days and long walks.
• Wedge heel: The wedge distributes weight evenly across the whole foot. Despite the height, the shoe stays stable and works well when the occasion calls for a little more elegance.
• Platform: A platform sole lifts the front and back equally, putting less strain on the arch than a high heel. It also adds height and presence to any outfit.
• Block heel: Stable with a wide base, the block heel is easy to wear even in warm weather and on uneven ground.

Easy summer looks: how to style shoes in summer

Summer shoes and summer clothes work well together in many combinations. The key is knowing what mood you want the look to have.

Sandals look most effortless with dresses and skirts. A wedge or platform style lifts the outfit slightly and works well for relaxed evening occasions. Flat sandals pair naturally with shorts and casual summer dresses.

Sneakers are the most versatile choice in summer. They work with jeans, shorts, leggings and casual dresses. Light and white styles keep things neutral and go with almost everything.

Loafers are a great option when you want the shoe to take a back seat, for example with wide-leg trousers, a midi dress or a relaxed smart-casual summer outfit.

White and light-coloured summer shoes are particularly versatile, brightening up any outfit and working with almost every colour. Dark styles in black or tan add weight to a look and suit evening occasions well.

How to care for your summer shoes

With the right care, summer shoes last longer and keep their shape.

• After wearing, let shoes air out before putting them away. This prevents odours and keeps the material fresh.
• Sandals can be wiped down with a damp cloth. Treat the straps with an appropriate care product if needed.
• Sneakers can be cleaned with a soft brush depending on the material. White soles can be brightened up with an old toothbrush and mild soap.
• Leather and faux leather should be treated with a conditioner at the end of the season to prevent the material from drying out and cracking.
• Allow shoes to dry thoroughly after rainy days or prolonged exposure to heat before storing them. Moisture and sweat are the most common causes of premature wear.

For specific care instructions, always check the care label or the product description.