Closed-Toe Shoes Absolutely Deserve a Place in Your Summer Wardrobe—Here's Why

Elle

2 days ago

It is, indeed, the summer of the flip-flop—but sometimes you just need a closed-toe summer shoe. Maybe you're going to the office, taking public transit, or you simply didn't refresh your pedicure this week. It's too hot for boots, and some situations call for something a bit less casual than sneakers.
Whatever the reason for covering up, you'll still want to stay comfortable and cool. That's where our chic yet practical closed-toe favorites come in. These styles pair easily with long shorts or a bubble skirt for summer, and they'll also carry you into fall with classic denim or a knit maxi. Don't wait to stub your toe on a rogue street trash bag—shop our favorites below.
Tory Burch has seriously stepped up its shoe game. I saw these pierced wedges at the SoHo store a few weeks ago and had to stop myself from trying them on. They're so unique and chic at the same time—and as a summer shoe that's not a sandal, they're perfect.
Shoe sizes: US 5-12
Colors available: Red, black, patent tan
Heel height: 1.77 inches
Materials: Leather
'Summer is practically synonymous with raffia. These flats are the perfect shoe to wear over and over again throughout the season.'—Alexis Bennett Parker, commerce content lead
Colors available: Raffia, black, olive, light blue, light yellow, red, rust
Materials: 82% cotton, 18% leather
I love a simple satin slide for summer—especially when it comes in one of this season's trending colors: lemon yellow (or, sure, butter yellow, if you want to call it that). Manolo Blahnik does it best, of course.
Colors available: Yellow/green
Heel height: 0.25 inches
Materials: Satin with leather lining
A slipper flat is an easy, sleek way to be summer-ready (even if your toes aren't). Burgundy is another It color for 2025, so start the trend early with these from Le Monde Beryl.
Shoe sizes: EU 35-42 (US 5-12)
Colors available: Burgundy, black, leopard, silver, ivory, brown, nude, tan
Materials: Lamb leather
'Jellies are so back, and Ancient Greek Sandals is largely responsible. These rubber ballet flats aren't just fun and easy to wear—they're waterproof, making them perfectly practical, too.'—Claire Stern Milch, digital director
Shoe sizes: US 6-11
Colors available: Clear
Materials: Rubber jelly
Snake print is a must-have for 2025, and it's perfect for transitioning from summer to fall. These Tony Bianco pumps also have the perfect kitten heel for summer adventures, with just enough edge to elevate any outfit, any season.
Shoe sizes: US 5-10
Colors available: Snake
Heel height: 1.25 inches
Materials: Snake-embossed leather
The boat shoe has made a major—if not entirely unexpected—comeback in recent seasons, making it a great closed-toe option for summer, boat or no boat. Miu Miu may have brought them back, but Sperry does the boat shoe like no other—and this sleek gray colorway is perfect for a subtle summer look.
Shoe sizes: US 5-11
Colors available: Grey, green, yellow
Heel height: N/A
I admit: I was shocked at how comfortable these loafers from Odissi are. I have them in snake-print leather, and they're my new go-to when it comes to a closed-toe shoe situation. I can wear them all day without any blisters or pain—which is saying a lot for loafers.
Shoe sizes: EU 36-40 (US 6-10)
Colors available: Cow print
Materials: Calf hair and leather
A sneaker in the summer is a classic, sure. But a sneaker slide for summer is innovative. Groundbreaking, even. Mix casual comfort with sleek efficiency, and a dash of the aforementioned snake print trend, and you've got yourself the perfect summer shoe.
Colors available: Python, grey, navy, brown
Materials: Python-embossed leather
Mesh flats continue to have their moment, especially in the summer. These butter yellow beauties from Rag & Bone are a great Mary Jane style to have in your summer rotation to keep you cool and stylish.
Shoe sizes: EU 36-40 (US 6-10)
Colors available: Yellow
Materials: Mesh upper with leather trim
Clogs are in again—and they couldn't have come at a better time. Easy and sleek, Naghedi's take on the clog is a polished update to the casual look without sacrificing style.
Shoe sizes: EU 35-41 (US 5-11)
Colors available: Tan, brown, olive, chocolate, black
Materials: Neoprene upper with leather backing
For the sporty, trend-forward crowd, the ballet sneaker is absolutely the way to go. Our team has been calling this trend for a year or more, and it's finally gaining traction, and the Puma Speedcat Flat is the perfect way to try it out.
Shoe sizes: 6-10
Colors available: Black
'When you're just under 5 feet tall like I am, every inch counts. These mules provide the perfect mini heel that's just enough to elevate your look, but won't leave you screaming in pain by the end of the day. Plus, the pop of a silver pointed-toe is so chic.'—Emma Aerin Becker, associate beauty e-commerce writer
Colors available: Silver
Materials: 100% polyester upper, leather sole
At least in my eyes, this summer has been all about stripes. These Repetto mini-mules are a perfect way to get in on the trend and still be comfortable and sleek.
Colors available: Navy stripe
Heel height: 1.5 inches
Materials: Canvas upper
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