The start of this year saw us all feeling nostalgic for the past, with 2016 trending hard on social media. Whether you chose to participate in the trend or not, your digital footprint most likely serves as a reminder of exactly where you were (and what you were wearing) a decade ago. Personally, I shudder at the thought. I was a teenager, fresh into my first summer of university, Topshop still reigned supreme on the high street, TikTok had only just been born, and I was proudly stomping around in boho sandals.
My go-to summer outfit? A white broderie anglaise babydoll dress, a frankly horrifying side part reminiscent of Justin Bieber circa Baby, and a pair of knee-high gladiator sandals from Topshop that, at the time, felt like the pinnacle of effortless summer style. Thankfully, I deactivated Facebook years ago, meaning the album titled ‘summer 16’ remains a relic of my boho sandal era - one that exists firmly out of sight, if not entirely out of mind.
And yet, in a turn of events, the boho sandal trend is back for spring/summer 2026. Think supple leather finishes, refined strappy silhouettes, neutral colour palettes and styling that pairs as seamlessly with tailored linen trousers as it does with floaty dresses and relaxed shorts.
Why are boho sandals trending for summer 2026?
We've had several seasons dominated by chunky sandals, platform loafers and trainer-heavy wardrobes, there’s a clear appetite for something lighter, flatter and more refined to freshen up our spring and summer wardrobes.
Design-wise, the new wave of boho-inspired footwear leans into practicality. In a season where sheer dresses, linen tailoring and relaxed silhouettes are everywhere, a simple flat sandal just makes sense. It works for the office, weekends, holidays, summer evenings, and more - no outfit overthinking required. Which, arguably, is exactly why they’re back: they slot seamlessly into how we actually want to dress right now.
From Roman sandals to embellished statement flats: Meet the 5 trends for flat boho sandals set to define summer 2026.
Minimalist, versatile and elegant: flat strappy sandals in brown are the most uncomplicated version of the boho trend and the easiest to style. From cognac to chocolate, the brown-hued flats can be effortlessly integrated into any summer wardrobe - from business looks to beach outfits.
More styling ideas for summer 2026:
- with white linen dresses
- with denim shorts and an oversized shirt
- with flowing fabric trousers
- with pleated skirts and vests
- with two-piece suits
Roman sandals (or gladiator sandals) will forever be considered boho classics. These are flat sandals with several straps that stretch over the foot and reach at least to the ankle or even higher, sometimes to the knee. While very high versions are often referred to as gladiator sandals, "Roman sandals" usually refers to the ankle-high models that are more suitable for everyday wear.
Flat, made of leather and without a lot of fuss, they look cleaner in 2026 than they used to - and therefore also more elegant.
The higher the straps, the more you're going to want to show them off. Roman sandals work best with cropped mini skirts, tailored shorts, or knee-length dresses.
The 2026 take on boho is a little more structured - and that’s where cage sandals come in. Think multiple slim straps that frame the foot rather than swamp it, giving even the simplest outfit a bit of edge. They strike that sweet spot between retro and modern, but crucially feel more polished than the knee-high gladiators of the 2010s. Style them with tailored shorts, linen trousers or a crisp cotton dress to keep things intentional, not costume-y.
Flat boho sandals - styling ideas for summer 2026:
- with cropped jeans and a tank top
- with a slip dress as a contrast
- with tailored shorts and a shirt
- with boho-style maxi dresses
Yes, clogs are back - but in a way that feels far more wearable than their 70s predecessors. The new versions are sleeker, often with a lower heel or subtle platform, and finished in soft leather rather than heavy wood. Flat clogs tap into the same artisanal, natural feel as boho sandals, but with a bit more substance. Perfect if you want something grounded that still feels directional - especially with floaty dresses or wide-leg trousers.
Styling ideas for summer 2026:
- with flowing maxi dresses
- with flared jeans
- with a denim dress
- with cargo pants and a polo shirt
If you’re going to lean into boho, this is where you can have a bit of fun. Sandals with subtle embellishment - think metal hardware, delicate beading or woven details - add interest without tipping into full festival territory. The key is balance: keep the rest of your outfit clean and pared-back (a simple slip dress, oversized shirt, or neutral co-ord), and let the shoes do the talking.
Styling ideas for summer 2026:
- with crochet outfits
- with summer knitwear
- with shorts and a white T-shirt
- with monochrome co-ords
