It might be a little early, considering it's a fairly dull Friday, to be thinking about getting our toes out. But honestly, there is no time like now to start gathering your summer bits and pieces. All the sizes are available, the shops are being re-stocked as things sell, and you have your pick of the best of the high summer collections. Most brands now break their
Most brands now break their Spring Summer ranges into two. What we've seen thus far is main line collections, as they are known, that cover the transitional time from winter to spring. Now what happens, is from April onwards, we start to see High Summer. Consider yourself informed!
Shoes are generally the first to arrive, and if you have been out shopping you will have noticed sandals and all things for warm weather appearing; if you have your summer jollies planned, get on that wardrobe now. To help you start, I've trawled the shops for the best summer sandals under €20. You. Are. Welcome.
First things first, let's look at comfort. I always loved Birkenstocks for summer and how the look has improved over the last year or two. But they are pricey, and there are alternatives. Penneys have a nice selection of suede sandals that will hug the sole of your feet for under a tenner and the neutral tones will match everything. One of my must-haves of the year so far!
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The jury is still out on the gladiator sandal. Mostly what puts me off are the potential tan lines from wearing something so strappy up your leg in the sun. I say tan lines, I really mean nice streaks of red that will turn into brown a month later when you get home. I think if you are planning a festival somewhere warm these will work a treat, but I'm not sure about walking the streets of Dublin in them.
I remember being in Nice one summer on the very stoney beaches and noticing that nearly every beach goer had on jelly sandals. These are handy for beach holidays to save you burning the life out of your toes on the hot sand. Otherwise, not for everyday wear.
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I think the compromise on the summer sandal has to be something that's a bit trendy (i.e. strappy, gladiator), flat for comfort, and a colour that will work with your entire suitcase. So step in H&M's answer from the Coachella collection for under €15. I've tried these on and they are nice and comfortable, and I reckon with a nice dress for dinners by the sea, you can't go wrong.
What do you make of sandals? Is the gladiator style up your street, or something more demure?
