Learning how to wear sandals to work can be surprisingly easy, despite the footwear having long been deemed too casual for corporate settings. Shifting dress codes and introducing smart styling tricks has opened the door for sandals at your 9-to-5 – and they’re a lifesaver for summer office outfits on those sweaty, swampy days. This season’s trendiest sandals strike the perfect balance between professional and polished. With a slew of fresh (and, most importantly, truly comfortable, your options are broader than ever before.
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Try fisherman sandals or flat mules with an oversized top and shorts for a more casual look, or opt for heeled flip-flops to elevate a suit that will take you right into happy hour.
To figure out the answer on how to to wear sandals to work in 2026, we’ve looked to some of our favourite street style looks that served as perfect inspiration for fool-proof summer outfits you should consider.
Thong sandals with a blazer and trousers
There’s no need to sacrifice comfort for work. Spare your soles during office commutes by adding chic, luxe flip-flops to your shoe rotation. Pairs in elevated fabrics like leather or satin, as well as those with embellishments will go really well with your workwear staples. Pair your new warm-weather flats with a suit; no overthinking required. As always, remember to sling a reliable work bag over your shoulder before heading out the door.
Slides have come a long way. Styling the polarising footwear for the workplace is no simple task, but thanks to slim, pared-down styles, they’ve become easier to introduce into your workwear wardrobe. Pair your barefoot-like flats with dressy staples — think a boho blouse and a jumper wrapped around your waist or shoulders — and keep things grounded with trendy, two-tone jeans.
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Kitten heels with a T-shirt and a maxiskirt
T-shirts will always get you out of a style conundrum. On days when you’re stuck on what to wear to work, throw on a basic tee – or swap it for a cool, designer tee with chic detailing. Layers are possible even in the heat: a linen button-down will dress your look up while keeping you cool. Summer-proof the look further with a breezy white maxi skirt and sleek kitten heels.
Want to go closed-toe for the office? Fisherman sandals are stylish, breathable, and comfy—and you can sub them in with the outfit formula above. The timeless silhouette works well with just about anything, but lately, a buttoned shirt and pleated Bermuda shorts have been the chicest styling combo on our street-style radar.
Wedges with a flowy dress
Whether you have a meeting or you simply want to elevate your work attire, wedges are the best alternative to painful pumps. Dress up the throwback style with a midi summer dress. Add a light cardigan to combat office AC. Complete the fit by throwing on an of-the-moment tennis bracelet to give your outfit a professional, sophisticated touch.
This article originally appeared in Glamour US.
