Fashion

Brown sandals are the versatile shoe of the summer

They literally go with anything.
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There's something so classic yet modern about brown sandals that they can never truly go out of style. But for summer 2026, a pair of these will become a must-have favourite that will effortlessly elevate any look. So yes, now might the time to invest in a pair.

If you want a simple way to make your outfit more chic, elevated, and in tune with the season’s hottest trends, this sandals trend is your best bet. The interesting thing, too, is that you don’t need to change your entire wardrobe to fit them in. In fact, it's all about learning how to mix brown sandals with seasonal staples like lightweight jeans or denim skirts, and you’ll have your best-dressed summer yet.

Below, we’ll show you how to get the most out of your brown sandals this summer for outfits that look fresh, feel elegant, and are unquestionably very current. The secret to looking amazing starts with your first step — literally.

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How to style brown sandals with jeans

First, let’s talk about jeans. Brown sandals go especially well with white or light-wash jeans because the contrast creates a clean and very summer-appropriate look. If you choose straight or granny jeans, add a light blouse or oversized shirt for a relaxed but chic look. With skinny jeans, brown sandals help to soften the look, making it feel less stiff and way more natural. A simple styling tip is to slightly turn up the hem of the jean so that the sandals are shown off more. That little detail makes a big difference.

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How to style brown sandals with trousers

With trousers, you can play a little more with fabrics and shapes. Linen trousers, for example, are a perfect match with brown sandals. This duo conveys a sense of effortless cool that’s ideal for warm days. Neutral tones like beige, white, or olive green work incredibly well. If you’re looking for something more formal, wide-cut trousers are an excellent choice. Brown sandals add a chill vibe that balances the formality of the trousers for a modern, not boring, outfit. Another winning combo is brown sandals with culottes. This style reveals the ankles, which allows the shoes to take centre stage.

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How to style brown sandals with skirts

Brown sandals combine wonderfully with midiskirts, especially those with movement, such as a pleated or A-line skirt. This type of outfit is chic, comfortable, and very easy to adapt to different occasions. You can wear it with a basic T-shirt for the day, then swap for a blouse at night. Long skirts are also an excellent option in summer. If you choose a printed skirt, brown sandals help balance the look and keep it from looking too overdone. But if you prefer something more minimalist, a skirt in neutral tones with brown sandals will create a sophisticated and timeless ensemble. We can’t fail to mention miniskirts, of course, which are making a strong comeback in 2026. Here, brown sandals bring a more relaxed and natural touch. Wear them with a loose shirt or a boatneck top to keep the balance of proportions.

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What type of brown sandal to buy this summer

The type of sandal you choose does make a difference, so shop discerningly. Thin straps tend to look more elegant and elevated, while thick-soled sandals have a much more casual feel. Both work, but you should choose according to the occasion and the style you want to project.

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Accessories that complement brown sandals

When it comes to accessories, try to stay consistent. Bags in earth tones, brown belts, or gold jewellery perfectly complete a look. The idea is to create harmony without anything competing too much.

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At the end of the day, the best thing about brown sandals is their ability to adapt to different styles. It doesn’t matter if you are more classic, relaxed, or daring with your looks, there will always be a way to incorporate them into your outfit. So this summer, dare to experiment with new combinations and discover how a simple pair of sandals can completely transform the way you dress.

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A version of this article was previously published in Glamour Mexico and Latin America.