Why Clog Sandals Are the Sleeper Hit of Summer Fashion
A clog sandal might be what's missing from your footwear rotation. Easy and nonchalant, a wooden-sole shoe nods to the carefree summers of the '70s and '90s—and thanks to the ongoing boho revival, the style feels fresh once again.
That said, I'm not talking about your babysitter's mall-bought flatforms of the '90s and early aughts. Today's iterations are chic and sophisticated, featuring polished gold hardware and luxurious leather, suede, or pony hair fabrications. Choose a towering heel that evokes the disco era or a low-heel slip-on that works for a day of sightseeing or exploring.
So, how to style around them? My money is on everything from bloomer shorts to long linen shirtdresses. You can even play up the retro factor and wear them with a cute gingham outfit for weekend brunch. There are few warm-weather looks they wouldn't add a nonchalant charm to, I promise. Shop the ELLE editor-approved clog sandals to wear all season, below.
These Miu Miu sandals feature a 30mm wooden heel, which means you'll be able to clock 10,000 steps without a hitch (your Oura will thank you). Made in Italy, the wide upper band features the label's distinctive logo in metallic gold lettering—so everyone will know you've scored the shoe of the moment.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: White, Black, Pink, Red
Materials: Wood, leather, rubber
Catherine Holstein continues to deliver must-have silhouettes season after season. Next up: a slightly retro, yet forward-thinking take on a slip-on clog. Thanks to a vamp rendered in luxurious pony hair (poised to be huge this fall) and an adjustable buckle featuring the signature Elio gold hardware, the Britt is the ultimate wishlist item.
Sizes: 6-11
Colors: Racing Green, Barley, Black
Materials: Wood, pony hair calfskin leather
It's no secret that nostalgia-tinted jelly sandals have been making a comeback, and these slip-on clogs are a fun update. The gold studs and brand's signature wing-shaped hardware ensure they're elevated enough to wear to the office or for drinks, while a comfortable padded footbed and a 50mm heel make them just as suitable for running errands.
Colors: Caramel, Black, Clear
Materials: Wood, PVC, rubber
Favorite Daughter continues to win everyone over for its reliable wardrobe staples, and this collaboration with Dr. Scholl's lets the Foster sisters dabble in the shoe category, too. The aptly named Heartbreak Kitten Heel is a flirty nod to a vintage slip-on clog, modernized with croc-embossed leather and a buckled vamp. Plus, you can't beat a cushioned footbed.
Colors: Navy, White, Brown, Wine, Tan
Customer review: 'This is such a comfortable shoe with style and class that only Dr. Scholl can create! Love them!'
We can thank Chloé for the resurgence of bohemian codes in recent years, and the Jeannette sandals are the perfect way to add a touch of romantic flair to any look, even your favorite T-shirt and jeans. These studded leather platform sandals boast a sturdy 110mm heel that pays nods to the hippie era, and they're still comfortable enough to carry you through a night on the dance floor.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Ginger Brown, Black, Eggshell
Materials: Wood, leather, polyurethane
Sweet and feminine, this cut-out leather option is bound to look cute peeking out from under a summer maxi dress or paired with tanned legs and an anklet.
Sizes: 5-10
Colors: White, Pink, Gold, Dark Brown
Materials: Synthetic wood, leather, rubber
Customer review: 'These are so comfy! Adds a little pop of fun to any outfit! Can wear with most anything from jeans to dresses! I have gotten so many compliments.'
Dolce Vita's Yandy Sandal is groovy without feeling dated. However, with its substantial 100mm heel, this style isn't for the faint of heart—or anyone with balance issues. Once you've adjusted to the height, though, you won't want to take them off until you're home for the night, thanks to the bouncy, leather-lined footbed
Colors: Cognac, Raffia
Materials: Leather upper, synthetic lining and sole
Iconic British footwear retailer Schuh's in-house brand is reliably on-trend and well-priced. This season, don't sleep on its suede slip-on clogs, finished with cool gold rivets. With a mid-heel, this style strikes the perfect balance for all-day wear.
Colors: Khaki, Chocolate, Cream
Materials: Wood, suede
Like its sister brand Zara, Bershka is a reliable go-to for footwear silhouettes that are buzzy without breaking the bank. Thanks to a rich dark brown colorway and elevated gold hardware—not to mention the bonus of an AIRFIT® latex foam insole—these are bound to become your most-worn shoes of the season.
Colors: Brown
Materials: Polyurethane
Madewell's bestselling Anouk platform is lighter than it looks, and an adjustable buckle ankle strap keeps you feeling secure while logging miles in them.
Colors: True Black, Dark Denim Multi
Materials: Synthetic sole, leather upper
Customer review: 'As a child of the '70s and a lover of platforms, these caught my eye. They are fantastic. Easy to walk in. Can wear them all day. Get so many compliments. And should get commission for the number of pairs I've 'sold' while wearing them.'
Fun-loving brand SIMONMILLER just knows how to create footwear that puts a smile on your face. Case in point: these block-heel babies. The plush rubber sole makes them a dream to wear from morning 'til night, while the silver dome studs add a little something special. Feeling bold? There's a leopard version, too—just saying.
Colors: Caramel, Leopard
Materials: Wood, rubber
Unsurprisingly, Free People is a treasure trove of boho-leaning clog sandals to suit every taste. The Cecily is a tried-and-true nod to the free-love era, and with studded leather and a tall pinewood heel, it's hard not to be obsessed.
Colors: Black, Tan, Valchetta
Materials: Leather, wood, rubber
Customer review: 'I've had my eye on these for over a year now and finally pulled the trigger, so glad I did! I worked a full retail shift on a cobblestone floor and my feet fell great. No issues at all. Treat yourself!!'
Much like its namesake, the Casanova Raffia sandal is ready for adventure. The natural texture contrasts nicely with a sleek, elongated heel and oversized buckle, making it a versatile pick for just about any summer dress code.
Colors: Brown, Chestnut Suede
Materials: Synthetic sole, raffia
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