Granny sandals might once have been seen as outdated or too cosy to be worn outside the home. But now? This spring they’re prime to become synonymous with good taste and forward-thinking style.
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In 2026 fashion has made it clear that real luxury isn’t measured by the height of the heel, but by the confidence and ease with which you walk. As such, the kind of shoes once associated with orthopaedics (or grandma sandals) has become essential. It’s all about comfort with intention— think soft leather, big buckles, solid bottoms, and the like.
To sum up the spirit of granny sandals, we’ve highlighted a few different styles below that you can shop for this spring along with tips for how to wear them like a fashion pro. Keep reading for a delightful mix of the past and present.
1. Dark leather sandals with a big, round buckle
The sheen of the leather, the oversized round buckle—these flat sandals are inherently elegant and modern without trying to be so. They’re perfect for every activity on the calendar this spring and summer, from a weekend coffee run to walking on cobblestone streets on holiday. They go exceptionally well with a floaty midi skirt, as seen above, or straight-leg jeans and a white button-down shirt.
2. Mules with a low, sensible heel
For a shoe that lives somewhere between polished and relaxed, look for a mule in a warm tone and a low heel. Sensible sophistication is the vibe—it’s the kind of shoe that goes with everything and enhances any outfit without making a fuss. We’d wear them with an A-line midiskirt, wide-leg linen pants, or structured Bermuda shorts for a blend of elegance and lightness. This is the perfect shoe for people who prefer their clothes to speak softly but say a lot.
3. Sandals with thick crisscross straps
With a solid base and a strong personality, these sandals are made for spring and summer travel. The crisscross straps and adjustable buckle make them as comfortable as they are stylish, and they’re the kind of piece that can transform any basic outfit into something with character. They work well with wide-leg pants, washed-out jeans, and silk midiskirts. Whatever pairing you choose, these shoes offer freedom of movement with style.
4. Sandal with thick straps and geometric hardware
Minimalist sandals with thick straps, a firm structure, and a practical sole are ideal for those who love practical but demanding fashion. They go best with straight-leg trousers, sleeveless vests, and/or faux-leather skirts. They have that kind of cosmopolitan air that works equally well at an office and an outdoor dinner party. Every angle reveals a precision that borders on perfection.
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5. The espadrille sandal
Basically, look for a design that looks like as though was made for walking in the Mediterranean, but also for conquering the city streets. The natural weave and large buckles are a perfect match for breezy cotton dresses, white jeans, or linen shorts.
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6. The fisherman sandal
And finally, the fisherman sandal has the kind of vintage yet modern feel that instantly adds a sense of charm to any look. This spring we’ll be wearing ours with khaki trousers, midi skirts, and light-wash jeans.
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A version of this article originally appeared on Glamour Mexico.
