Summer 2026 shoes: the trends to embrace (and how to choose them well)

Summer 2026 is here, bringing with it an irresistible urge to refresh your favorite pair. But between ballet flats making a strong comeback, minimalist 1990s-style sandals, and bow mules appearing everywhere, how do you find your way around? Don't panic: we're breaking down the major summer 2026 footwear trends for you, with practical advice to help you choose the style that truly suits you - and some gems to shop at André.

Table of contents

• The major summer 2026 footwear trends
• Ballet flats: the undisputed star of the season
• How to choose your summer shoes according to your body shape
• Our André shopping selection for this summer
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Key figures

The major summer 2026 footwear trends

This season marks a clear turning point: comfort is no longer the enemy of style. Minimalism reigns supreme in the spring-summer 2026 trends, fueled by a fascination with the streamlined style of the 1990s. The result? Flat, lightweight, timeless shoes that go with everything - and that you'll genuinely want to wear.

Here are the 5 silhouettes you absolutely need to know:

1. ballet flats - always on top

There's no getting around them. Ballet flats aren't ready to have their moment: after several seasons of shaping and reshaping trends, they remain the ultimate comfortable and chic option. Adorned with rhinestones, featuring straps, tied with ribbons, or reimagined in mesh or leather, they reinvent themselves season after season.

What's new in 2026? In 2026, heeled ballet flats are emerging as an essential footwear trend. More structured and mature than flat styles, they are now winning over the most stylish women as a chic, modern alternative to classic ballet flats.

The right André choice: The DONIA CITRON - BALLET FLAT, a bright and lightweight ballet flat, perfect for sunny days.

📊 +38% of online searches in spring-summer 2026 - Ballet flat popularity

2. minimalist sandals - chic essentials

Almond-toe shoes, well-crafted leather flip-flops, discreet strappy sandals, ruched ballet flats... feature on every mood board this season and reflect a desire for timeless, understated fashion - pieces that go with everything and suit every occasion.

The watchword: streamlined. A fine strap, supple leather, a neutral color (nude, off-white, caramel) - and you're all set.

The right André choice: The FYRELIE OR - SANDAL, an elegant golden sandal that works just as well with a beach look as with a summer evening outfit.

3. Bow mules - the feminine touch

Drawing on 2000s trends, Spring 2026 mule styles feature a small slim heel and a discreet bow at the front. When it comes to the colour palette, anything goes, from neutral shades to vibrant colours.

Easy to slip on and incredibly versatile, the bow mule is the perfect shoe for going from the terrace to the office effortlessly.

André’s best choice: The FLORYANA ECRU - MULE, understated and refined, to wear with white jeans or a midi dress.

4. espadrilles & canvas shoes - holiday spirit

Summer would not be summer without a good pair of espadrilles. Lightweight and breathable, they embody the spirit of the beautiful season. For Summer 2026, sandals remain a must-have, but canvas styles also make an appearance with patent, golden or leather finishes for a relaxed look.

André’s best choice: Discover the canvas shoes and espadrilles from the André Summer 2026 collection, designed for a modern and accessible everyday style.

5. the colours of the season

Summer 2026 shoes come in the trend colours of Spring-Summer: pastel yellow and green span the entire palette, from trainers to heeled shoes. More vibrant, candy pink will be one of the key colours. Among neutrals, brown comes out on top.

Comfortable and incredibly versatile, brown ballet flats continue to rank among the most popular shoes. With the arrival of Spring-Summer 2026, brown is emerging as the new neutral - softer than black, less rigid and perfect for bridging the seasons.

Ballet flats: the undisputed star of the season

If you only remember one trend this summer, make it this one. Ballet flats in 2026 come in a variety of styles, so everyone can find their ideal pair:

The new Spring-Summer 2026 Women's Ballet Flats collection celebrates the season with a fresh, contemporary and refined style. Lightweight lines, breathable materials and sleek designs come together with a bright and versatile colour palette, perfect for every moment of the day.

André’s tip: Choose the DONIA CITRON - BALLERINE for a vitamin-packed look, or opt for a natural leather style for a more timeless version. Discover the full selection of ballet flats on the André website.

💡 Style tip: Ballet flats with a strap visually lengthen the foot and pair perfectly with a long dress or wide-leg trousers — the perfect summer combination.

How to choose your summer shoes according to your body shape

Finding the ideal shoe is also a matter of body shape. Here is a quick guide to help you make your choice:

Do you have narrow feet?

Styles for narrow feet include trainers and sneakers, elasticated ballet flats, derbies, lace-up ankle boots, and sandals with adjustable straps. In summer, opt for sandals with adjustable thin straps or ballet flats with elastic.

Do you have wide feet?

Shoes for wide feet include flexible trainers and sneakers, boots, and sandals with a shape that does not constrict the foot. Avoid overly pointed toes and choose open-toe or round-toe styles.

Are you petite?

If you are petite and curvy, choose styles with thin straps and chunky or slim heels, depending on the comfort you are looking for, for a graceful, lightweight look. Wedge sandals are your best allies: shape without sacrificing comfort.

Do you want to walk all day?

A comfortable pair of shoes can be recognized by the presence of a padded inner lining. For flat shoes, choose a model padded around the ankle, over the top, and along the side of the foot. Choose a sole between 1 and 2 cm for optimal support.

📊 67% of women say comfort is their number one criterion when buying summer footwear - Comfort & fashion

Our André shopping selection for this summer

At André, the summer 2026 collection is designed to combine modern style, lasting comfort, and quality craftsmanship. Here is our selection of must-have pieces:

"The André summer 2026 collection is designed for a modern style" — André

🛍️ Great deal: André offers free delivery on orders over €50 and interest-free payment in 3 installments. That's all you need to treat yourself without feeling guilty!

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What are the women's footwear trends for summer 2026?

The biggest women's footwear trends for summer 2026 are ballet flats (flat or heeled), minimalist sandals with thin straps, bow mules, espadrilles, and canvas shoes. In terms of colors, pastel yellow, candy pink, green, and caramel brown dominate the season. '90s-inspired minimalism is the season's common thread.

How to choose ballet flats for summer?

To choose your ballet flats, consider the shape of your foot (slim, wide, sensitive) and the occasion. For everyday wear, choose soft leather with a lightly cushioned sole. For an outing or event, a satin ballet flat with a strap or bow will be perfect. Also remember to check the toe width: round for greater comfort, pointed for a more elongated effect.

What is the most versatile summer shoe?

The ballet flat remains the most versatile shoe of summer 2026: wear it with jeans, a dress, wide-leg trousers, or a suit. The mule is also highly adaptable. If you're looking to invest in a single pair, choose a neutral style (ecru, caramel, black) that will go with all your outfits.

Are André shoes comfortable for walking long distances?

Yes! André designs its shoes by combining modern aesthetics with everyday functionality. The styles feature cushioned insoles and carefully selected materials - premium leather and durable textiles - for lasting comfort. For a day spent walking, choose sandals with a lightweight wedge sole or ballet flats with a soft lining.

Where to buy trendy women's shoes for summer 2026?

Visit us directly at andre.fr to discover the complete summer 2026 collection: ballet flats, sandals, mules, slingbacks… Free delivery from €50 and 30-day returns.

Key figures

📊 +38% more searches for "trendy ballet flats" recorded in spring-summer 2026 compared with the previous season

👟 67% of women cite comfort as the No. 1 criterion when choosing their summer shoes (2026 Consumer Fashion Study)

📊 9 flat-shoe trends dominate the SS 2026 runways - Minimalist footwear trend

💡 5 key styles to remember for summer 2026: ballet flats, minimalist sandals, bow mules, canvas espadrilles, colorful wedges

Conclusion

Summer 2026 is shaping up to be rich in shoe inspiration: with the big comeback of reinvented ballet flats, the softness of minimalist sandals, and the practicality of bow mules, there's something for every style and occasion. The good news? Comfort and fashion are finally a perfect match this season.

Whether you're looking for a pair for the office, the beach, a wedding, or simply your everyday outings, André has the shoes you need. Discover the summer 2026 shoe collection now at andre.fr - and if you're still hesitating between ballet flats and sandals, our guide How to choose women's boots based on your body shape will help you see things even more clearly for the following season. 👡