7 closed-toe shoes that are perfect for summer

It’s the same story every summer: as the temperatures go up, so does the urge to remove every last layer of fabric from your skin, shoes included. However, taking off everything isn’t always possible. Whether because of your job’s dress code, because you’re a little feet-shy (we hear you), or because walking around your big city and taking public transport is a little gross at best and a health hazard at worst—looking at you, London and NYC!—; sometimes it’s just better to rely on the safety of a close-toed shoe.

If not even a pedicure can lure your toes out of your shoes, countless chic, close-toed footwear options will suit you just fine this summer. From mules to sling-backs, from ballet flats to 70s-inspired clogs, scroll down to shop the best close-toed shoes for summer.

The ballet flats trend is still going stronger than ever, so if you are one of the—very few—people who haven’t dabbled into the trend, now is your time! These shoes have been trending for a couple of years now, so the look has started evolving to stay fresh: buckled Mary Jane-esque ballet flats are to be found in both high street and designer stores; or, instead of a buckle, many models feature an elasticated strap. Satin ballet flats reminiscent of their dancing origin are another trendy—albeit delicate—option. Lastly, Maison Margiela’s Tabi ballet flats are fuelling the internet’s split-toe obsession.

Close-toed, ultra-pointy heels are one of the main shoe trends of 2024, and they’re perfect for the summer. Practical and girly kitten heels are another hugely popular heel trend for this year. Do you see where I’m going with this? If your commute allows it, a pair of pointed kitten heels— either slingbacks, pumps, or mules—will have you feeling like Carrie Bradshaw all summer long. This trend references back to both the 50s and the 90s, creating the perfect mix of retro-mania and nostalgia. A pair of pointed slingbacks will add a touch of whimsy to puddle jeans and baggy shorts alike.

When looking for summer-ready close-toed shoes, mules and slingbacks are the way to go, the perfect in-between. Backless loafers are a somewhat new trend that is rapidly gaining popularity, and they’re the perfect pick for anyone looking to keep it smart with a preppy twist. Nothing compares to the ease of a slip-on shoe, and backless loafers might just be the cutest closed-toe shoe for work and the office. If you’re looking for a classic with a twist, Mary Jane loafers are another chic option to consider.

With both the 70s aesthetic and Miuccia Prada’s “ugly-chic” philosophy back in fashion, clogs hit two birds with one stone. Reminiscent of both the 1970s and the early noughties, clogs are the chill close-toed shoe you need for your summer adventures. Styling them is easier than you think. Go for the chill Scandi vibe with Birkenstock Bostons and baggy jeans, or get office-ready with heeled clogs, wide-leg trousers and a shirt. Finally, both heels and flats will look great styled with a flowy dress.

When we think of closed-toe summer shoes, we immediately think of mules. Not only they’re the perfect compromise between keeping your feet cool and not showing your toes, but they also come in quite literally all shapes and sizes. Any backless shoe is potentially a mule, so the choice is almost endless: (kitten) heeled mules, ballet mules, loafer mules, sneaker mules, flat mules, cowboy mules… you get the gist. Whether you want to go sexy, ironic, smart, casual, or sporty, we guarantee that the perfect mule for you is out there. As the saying goes, if there’s a mule there’s a way.

Yes, the mesh flats mania is still going! Bottega Veneta originated the trend in 2019 with a mesh pump, then in 2020 The Row debuted a sock-like mesh slipper, and in 2023 Alaïa came out with the fishnet Mary Janes that were seemingly on every influencer’s feet. Now, the style has been adopted by high-street retailers like ASOS, COS and Reformation, high-to-mid-range labels like Khaite and Proenza Schouler, and high-end maisons like Valentino, Bottega Veneta, and Burberry. The designs range from thick fishnet embellished with crystals to barely-there, ultra-thin mesh. It’s safe to say that the style has truly exploded, and there are cute options available at any price point.

If you had told us a year ago that The Row was going to come out with $890/£860-a-pop jelly sandals and that they’d sell out almost immediately, we probably would not have believed you. Alas, it is true: The Row’s pre-fall 2024 runway in Paris debuted the Cage Jelly Sandals, thus starting a new close-toed summer shoe trend for us to partake in. Before you max out your credit card, there are plenty of brands that do jelly close-toed shoes for less: Melissa, Ancient Greek Sandals, and MANGO among others.