Every summer, I get tons of requests for comfort sandals that don’t look frumpy. And I get it, finding supportive shoes that also look stylish can be a challenge. The good news is, comfort sandals have come a long way, and some of the most on-trend styles right now are actually easy on the feet.
While I haven’t personally tested every pair in this post, I’ve done some digging and rounded up the best ones I could find—based on brand reputation, comfort features, and style. If you’re looking for sandals that are both supportive and stylish, this is a great place to start!
beeks Sunbeam Sandal (8) // similar pink linen pants // Splendid Faye V-Neck Tee (M) // similar denim jacket (S) // NAGHEDI Nomad Hobo
What Makes a Sandal Frumpy?
As with most things in fashion, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. What looks frumpy to me might look cute to you, and vice versa—so take all of this with a grain of salt. But when I think of frumpy sandals, I picture dark colors, thick straps, chunky soles, and lots of velcro instead of buckles. The overall vibe is often conservative and overly practical.
That said, some women can totally rock a chunky Dad Sandal and make it look chic. So yes, it’s more nuanced than just the shoe itself. The frump factor often comes down to who is wearing it and how it’s styled. What looks effortlessly cool on your teenage daughter might not translate the same way on someone in her 40s or 50s.
With that in mind, here are my best tips for finding comfort sandals that feel stylish and age-appropriate—without veering into frumpy territory.
Naot Dorith in Gold Tread Leather (8)
#1. Look for thinner straps.
Thinner straps usually look more modern and flattering than thicker, heavier ones. I also find that diagonal lines are more visually appealing than horizontal ones—especially straps that hit right across the ankle. Slingbacks are another great option for support without cutting off the ankle line.
#2. Go for less foot coverage.
More coverage = heavier look = more potential for frump. I typically prefer sandals that show more skin, but of course, comfort and support come first when you have finicky feet, so sometimes you’ll need to find a happy medium.
#3. Choose lighter colors… but not necessarily white.
Since color doesn’t affect comfort, this is an easy area to experiment with. Dark brown and black sandals can feel heavy and draw attention straight to your feet—especially with chunkier styles. Bright white can also lean frumpy, but it’s trending this season, so if you find a pair you love, they’re worth considering. (I’d just recommend looking for softer or warmer shades of white.)
Personally, I like neutrals that blend with my skin tone, like taupe or a warm cognac. If you have deeper skin, a richer brown might be a better match. That said, shades of brown are trending across the board right now, so they’re a great option for anyone. Metallics are also having a moment and offer a fun, stylish alternative to both light and dark neutrals. Bright colors and pastels can be fun too.
#4. Pay attention to trends.
Wearing outdated styles can instantly age an outfit, so it’s worth taking a few minutes to browse what’s trending—even in non-comfort shoes. Then look for similar elements in comfort-friendly options. Right now, thong straps, strappy minimalist styles, square toes, gladiator details, and jelly sandals (yes, really!) are in. Incorporating even one of those details can help a comfort sandal feel more current.
#5. Don’t neglect grooming.
A good pedicure can go a long way. Whether you DIY or hit the salon, keeping your feet moisturized and nails tidy (even with clear polish or none at all) helps your whole look feel more put-together. Chipped polish and dry heels will distract from even the cutest sandals—comfort or otherwise.
What To Look for in a Comfort Sandal
beek Palila c/o (8) // Tommy Bahama Relaxed Jean Shorts (10) // J.Crew Factory Beach Sweater (M) // Maison de Sabre tote c/o
When shopping for comfort sandals, there are a few key things I always look for:
- A molded footbed: More and more brands are designing sandals with contoured footbeds that cradle the foot and provide natural support. These make a huge difference in comfort, especially if you’re on your feet for long periods.
- Back straps or higher vamps: These help the sandal stay securely on your foot, which makes walking easier—especially if you’re doing a lot of it. Slides are cute (and I love them), but they’re definitely not the most secure option.
- Adjustability: Sandals with adjustable straps offer a better fit for different foot shapes and widths.
- Soft materials: Look for padded footbeds, soft leather or fabric straps, and minimal seams or hardware in areas that might rub. A little cushioning goes a long way in avoiding blisters and hot spots.
The Best Comfort Sandals That Aren’t Frumpy
For this post, I’m dividing the sandals into two categories: dressy and casual—or basically, heels and flats. Of course, there’s some overlap, but I know not everyone can (or wants to) wear heels, so hopefully this makes it easier to find what you’re looking for than lumping them all together.
Casual Comfort Sandals
Birkenstock Madrid (39)
These are the styles I reach for most often—easy, supportive options that work for everything from travel days to everyday errands. There’s a range of support represented here; some aren’t sandals I’d walk miles in, but they all include at least a few of the comfort features I mentioned above. I’m also happy to see so many brands adding cushion and arch support to their minimalist styles.
Shop Casual Comfort Sandals:
Dressy Comfort Sandals
Frankie4 Harris (8.5) // KUT from the Kloth Kelsey (10) // Sanctuary Split Neck T-Shirt (S) // VESTIRSI Eden Shoulder Bag c/o
If you have an occasion to dress up for, or just like adding a little height to your outfits, this section is for you! These styles offer a more elevated look and include comfort features like block heels, cushioned footbeds, and supportive straps to keep you feeling good all day (or night).
Shop Dressy Comfort Sandals:
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19 Responses
Great post! Thank you for including some Beeks. Hands down my favorites – super cute and comfortable as well.
That last outfit in neutrals is stunning.
Thank you! So simple, but one of my all-time favorites.
I love that outfit too!
I love the Ohana from Olu Kai. They have great support ! I live on the Gulf coast so I wear them year round. Olu Kai has some new cute and different styles. Definitely worth a try if you need support. They have a kinds of shoes.
I’m thinking about ordering the Naot Dorith in silver which would coordinate with my clothing colors. They look cute on you but just wondering if they look clunky in person? Reviews are stating some people had problems with them breaking down after a short period of time and stitching coming undone. Have you experienced any issues with them? I wear a solid 5 1/2. Would you recommend sizing up or down given your experience with them? They don’t come in half sizes. Thinking of wearing them casually with dresses, shorts and white jeans.
I wore mine all over Italy and had no issues with them falling apart. They aren’t clunky, but they do have that footbed that looks a little “crunchy granola” lol – I think you just have to try them on and see what you think. They are not my go-to for everyday, but they’re a good compromise for travel, I think.
Great blog! I have your #2 dressy sandal by Naturalizer in two colors, black and the metallic pictured! They are soooo comfortable (and I have 59-year old bad feet!). I wore them on a cruise and for dressy dinners/gala(s)— on my feet for hours! And, of course, the Bork Madrid sandal.. have those in, ummmm, too many colors 😉 PS – Go Birds 🦅
Such a great post! I am one of those that has to have arch support in all of my footwear. And on top of that, my feet are very narrow and paper thin, so the straps need to be adjustable if the sandal/shoe is not available in narrow width. REEF sandals are another great option, and they have a large variety of styles.
I bought the Naot sandals in gold last year and they are the most comfortable sandals- right out of the box. Perfect for walking! However, the Birkenstock madrids are my first birks purchase and sadly, I just cannot break them in. I keep wearing them around the house but the straps are so stiff.
I have found Taos sandals to be great for travel. Not the most glamorous,but great for lots of walking. Also the soft footbed models in Birkenstock make a big difference in comfort for my picky feet. Mephisto and Pedro Garcia sandals are wonderful too…pricy but I’ve found the older I get the more expensive my shoes become as I look for comfort as a non negotiable 🙂
I was just having a conversation with my son’s 23 year old girlfriend last night about comfortable shoes and how her generation prefers comfort (she wears Birkenstocks and Reefs). I shared with her that when I was 23, I wore high heels and flip flops all the time! I think the younger girls probably have the right idea.
I’ve noticed now that I need an ankle strap on my sandals – can’t do slip on/mule style sandals anymore. The Naots look so cute on you – surprised you don’t wear them IRL.
What are some good sandals for men??
FYI Nordstrom rack has those Vionic Merlot in a cream and black alligator for only $69 for anyone interested. Sold out in some sizes but a great deal! If you see them anywhere in that cognac shade, please let us know.
Some wonderful styles and appreciate all the great ideas
The big UGH in this – if a gal needs to wear wides, usually only the frumpier choices come in wide widths. The really stylish choices seldom are available in wides. I forgot about Naot, so I checked out their wides, none of their wide choices appealed to me. The cute pair you have only comes in regular width. Sigh. 🙂
My deepest sympathy for the loss of your mother in-law. Prayers for your family.
Vionic and Clark’s are brands that are comfortable for my feet. Styles like Birkenstock are also comfortable. The sandals with the thin straps are cute but they aren’t comfortable on my feet plus they’re not bunion friendly. The only thong sandals I find comfortable are Vionic. Stylish and comfortable sandals can be found. It’s not like in the past. Thanks for all the selections.
The Sorel Cameron Wedge shoes are awesome. I travel for work and have the challenge of dressing profesionally for a meeting accompanied by a site visit that could be hours of walking, then a flight. These shoes have been my summer staple, I have purchased three pairs over three years!
Hi
What brand of jeans are you wearing in the photo with the navy/white stripe sweater? I love them!
They’re KUT from the Kloth Meg.