Put away your heavy, fleece-lined knee high boots, combat boots and sneakers. With warm weather approaching, it is no longer suitable to wear our winter footwear. However, the transition into warmer footwear can sometimes be challenging. It can be hard to determine which styles to try out this season, particularly for those who have been living in tundra-like conditions for about six months. For the fashionistas and fashion-enthusiasts out there, it is time to start stepping into spring with these footwear trends.

Slides & Mules

Slides and mules are both types of slip-on sandals that can be flat or have heels. Slides were once seen as strictly an athletic-style of sandal or flip flop. However, with the fabrication of various styles and materials involving these classic silhouettes, the line between casual and elegant has been blurred. Slides can fit within multiple categories of style, ranging from minimalist to athletic to re- fined. For the spring and summer, have fun with different textures, trims, patterns and material combinations. Bright colors, feathers, rhinestones, snake print, suede, top–knot designs, vegan leather and toe loops are popular styles this season.

Strappy Sandals

Sandals are a type of open-toe footwear with straps that go around the ankles or foot. Strappy sandals have more straps around the ankle, instep or toes than usual. There are a multitude of ways to play around with wrapping the straps. They can be tied or woven in various ways, like the gladiator sandal style. Look out for strappy sandals with thin straps. The barely-there floss heeled sandal style is in popular demand because of its elegant appearance. Another trend to take notice of is rope inspired sandals. They are catching the attention of models for their nautical vibe.

Transparent / Clear Straps

Expand your summer collection with a pair of shoes with a transparent slide, heel or strap. Regardless of the number of variations for this style, clear sandals exude a classic, chic elegance. This aesthetic is especially true when paired with neutral tones like white, beige and black or patterns such as snake print. A pair of transparent wedged sandals can help add a layer of dimension to any neutral outfit, and will make you feel as if you are rocking the runway.

Platform Sandals

If you are the type of person who prefers flat sandals but still want to experiment with height in your footwear, you can try platform sandals. Heels are not exclusive to any of these sandal trends. Platform sandals not only provide you with a couple extra inches of height. Many brands make platform sandals that have added cushion and support, proving that fashion can also be comfortable.

Contact Angie Diaz at [email protected].