Buzz
Unless stated otherwise, all sizes mentioned in this article are for women.
1. Customer-adored flatforms that are incredibly comfy and stylish, prompting shoppers to come back for additional colors. With 23 options available, there's no shortage of choices.
2. Chunky platform gladiator sandals by Dr. Martens, featuring their iconic air-cushioned soles, ensuring you can stride through urban landscapes without sacrificing comfort on hard surfaces.
Promising review: "These run slightly large, which seems typical for Dr. Martens. I absolutely adore these shoes and receive countless compliments. As someone with wide feet who spends all day on their feet, I can comfortably wear these for an entire day." —Stefanie F.
Available at Dr. Martens for $140 or on Amazon for $113.99+ (sizes 5–11).
3. Square-toe slides adorned with oversized faux suede bows that are destined to become the standout feature in any outfit combination you’ve been perfecting.
4. Birkenstock Arizona sandals, a timeless classic that has remained virtually unchanged since they first became a staple in 1973.
5. Braided crossover sandals that are perfect for slipping on when you’ve already wasted too much time rummaging through your closet for an outfit. (Just try not to think about the mess waiting for you at home.)
6. Horsebit heels that exude luxury without the hefty price tag!!! Seriously, if you spotted these on a friend, would you ever believe they cost just $40?!
7. Periwinkle platform slides with a sleek, sporty design that instantly make me dream of lounging by a luxurious resort pool in a vibrant terry cloth outfit.
Available at our Goodful shop for $189 (sizes 7–11 currently in stock).
8. A set of lug-sole sandals perfect for those who love style but also need grip, especially when your best friend insists on dragging you on a "nature walk."
9. Fisherman-style woven sandals crafted by hand in Athens using vegetable-tanned Italian full-grain leather, ensuring they’ll last for countless summers to come.
Available at our Goodful shop for $165 (sizes 5–11.5 and two color options).
10. A set of '90s-inspired chunky wedge sandals that will have you reminiscing with a playlist featuring Hootie & the Blowfish, Spice Girls, and Smash Mouth.
11. Ethically handmade fisherman sandals featuring a cork platform, flexible outsole, and breathable sheep leather lining, perfect for looking stylish while tackling long walks.
Either/Or is a small business dedicated to sustainable sourcing and ethical production. They collaborate with small, family-run workshops that ensure fair wages for their workers.
Available at Either/Or for $299 (sizes 6–11 and two color options).
12. Minimalist leather slides for those who get easily frustrated when putting together an outfit. Regardless of your usual style, slip these on when you’ve got just 60 seconds before heading out the door!
These are crafted by designer and small business owner Christina Christi, who handmakes all her jewelry, bags, and sandals in Athens, Greece.
Promising review: "Absolutely adore these sandals—great fit, beautifully crafted, and they arrived super fast. I’d happily purchase from Christina again." —karengazz
Available from Christina Christi on Etsy for $83.29 (originally $104.12+; sizes 5–10.5 and two colors).
13. Nisolo clogs designed with shock-absorbing, ultra-plush cushioned insoles, ensuring you won’t feel like you’re walking on hard wooden blocks.
Available at Nisolo for $85+ (originally $170+; sizes 5–11 and five color/style options).
Please note: This style is final sale.
14. Vibrant huaraches featuring embroidered flowers and a closed-toe design, perfect if your pedicure schedule has been a bit neglected lately.
Macarena Collection is a small business based in Buena Park, California, offering a variety of leather sandals, embroidered Huipil shirts, and home decor.
Promising review: "I ADORE these shoes! The moment I opened the package, I was greeted by the delightful scent of fresh leather. I slipped them on right away and was amazed at how adorable they looked in person! I usually wear a size 6.5 and have wider toes, so I ordered a size 6, and they fit like a dream. I wore them all day without any discomfort, blisters, or the usual 'new shoe' pain. I can’t recommend them enough!" —Memphis Market Co. David and Grace
Available from Macarena Collection on Etsy for $48.72 (originally $60.90; sizes 5–10).
15. Or opt for handmade braided huaraches if you’re prone to sweaty toes and need maximum airflow.
Artesanías Camila is a small business based in Carthage, Texas, run by Blanca Olivera. They specialize in handmade Mexican-inspired huaraches, bags, hats, and apparel.
Promising review: "These shoes are not only stunning but also incredibly comfortable and supportive. As someone with high arches, I struggle to find well-fitting shoes, but these fit perfectly! No blisters or discomfort, and I was able to walk over a mile right out of the box without needing to break them in. Plus, I receive endless compliments! Highly recommend." —emnkugler
Available from Artesanías Camila on Etsy for $43.20 (originally $54; sizes 5–10 and three color options).
16. Jelly slides that will instantly transport my fellow millennials back to the '90s, a simpler era when pre-teens rocked these with Aeropostale monkey shirts.
Available at Matisse for $40 (sizes 6–10 and five colors) or on Amazon for $37.99 (sizes 6–10 and three colors).
17. Strappy Sorel sandals featuring a sporty zigzag sole and "foot-to-floor foam" for unbeatable all-day comfort.
18. Lace-up, ankle wrap sandals perfect if your everyday style channels Megara vibes.
Greek Chic Handmades is a small business based in Athens, Greece, run by Eleftheria Tyraki. Most of their designs are customizable, so if your preferred sandal isn’t available in the color you want, just ask if they can make it happen!
Promising review: "The sandals look exactly like the pictures. The laces aren’t stretchy, so you’ll need to flex your legs while tying them to avoid tightness. This ensures they stay securely on my legs. I’ll definitely be ordering more from this shop." —Abs Inthe
Available from Greek Chic Handmades on Etsy for $79.59+ (originally $99.49+; sizes 4–14 and five color options).
19. A set of braided chunky sandals with a small block heel, perfect for staying trendy without the risk of wobbling like a baby giraffe in sky-high heels.
20. Studded Steve Madden gladiators for those who firmly believe there’s no such thing as too much accessorizing. Pair these with an anklet to really drive the point home. 💁🏼♀️
21. Handmade strappy sandals crafted without buckles, ties, or zippers to avoid irritating your feet. Instead, they feature genuine leather straps that mold to your feet over time.
Greek Goddess Sandals is a small business based in Athens, Greece, specializing in handmade shoes and bags. Their naturally tanned leather develops a unique patina over time, ensuring your piece is one-of-a-kind.
Promising review: "I absolutely ADORE my Athena sandals!!! They’re stylish and incredibly comfortable (after breaking them in). I’ve received countless compliments, and several people have asked where I bought them. I just ordered another pair in white, along with two other styles. Thank you for creating such amazing sandals!!" —Jeffrey Atwell
Available from Greek Goddess Sandals on Etsy for $62.01 (originally $77.51; sizes 35 EU–43 EU and six color options).
22. And vegan leather flip-flops featuring a foam-cushioned footbed, so your feet won’t feel like they’re slapping the pavement with every step.
Very Lovely Soles is a Black woman-owned small shoe business run by Vanessa L. Seide. Her designs are available online and in select boutiques in Westchester County, NY.
Available from Very Lovely Soles for $40 (sizes 6–10 and eight color options).
Reviews in this post have been condensed and edited for clarity.
