If there’s one trend that’s been heating up sidewalks, social feeds, and new arrivals sections this summer, it’s red shoes—and more specifically, red sandals. What started as a subtle pop of color on runways and red carpets last year has fully taken over this season. Whether you’re spotting them on your favorite celebs (yes, Hailey Bieber included) or using them to elevate your own outfit ideas, red sandals are officially the it-shoe of the moment.
But this isn’t just about sandals. The best red shoes are showing up in all forms—ballet flats, kitten heels, sporty slides—and they’re rewriting the rules of neutral-toned dressing. This season, red is the new beige. It’s that unexpected twist that makes any outfit feel intentional and elevated. Whether you’re going full glam or just want to throw on jeans and a tee, a red pair of shoes adds that “she’s got great style” energy in seconds. Ready to upgrade your shoe game? Let’s get into it.
LUDO STRAPPY TOE RING FLAT SANDALS, REFORMATION
1. Red Sandals: The Star of Summer
Red sandals are the headline act this season—and for good reason. They’re bold, versatile, and surprisingly easy to wear. Minimalist strappy versions are dominating Instagram feeds and TikTok styling videos, offering a sleek and sophisticated way to add that fiery pop of color to your everyday look. Your summer wardrobe isn’t complete without them.
Style Tip: Pair a red strappy sandal with an all-white outfit for a crisp, high-contrast look. Think linen sets, breezy maxi dresses, or tailored shorts and a tank.
My Picks for Red Sandals: Everyone from Khaite to A. Emery to Emma Parsons to Ann Taylor (yes I said Ann Taylor!) has got some seriously cute red strappy sandals this summer. Plus you already know about the current trends of red flip flops and jellies that are everywhere.
2. Red Ballet Flats: A Timeless Style
Thanks to the balletcore trend and celebs like Hailey Bieber and Bella Hadid, red ballet flats are suddenly everywhere. They’re equal parts nostalgic and chic—offering that sweet spot between comfort and polish. Perfect for errands, coffee dates, dressing down a tailored look or when you just want to make a fashion statement.
Style Tip: Try red ballet flats with a denim midi skirt and a fitted baby tee, or with slouchy trousers and a structured blazer for a model-off-duty vibe.
Editor Favorites:
- Classic satin red ballet flat
- Mary Jane-style with a modern twist
- Mesh red flats or jellies are a great choice for those hot summer days
3. Red Sneakers: The Cool-Girl Staple That Works Year-Round
Red sneakers strike that perfect balance between statement and staple. They play well with casual looks like oversized denim and a white tee, but they also hold their own against more elevated pieces like a structured blazer or slip dress. For a sporty look, red sneakers are a stylish choice this season.
Style tip:
Lean into the sporty-chic vibe by pairing red sneakers with white tube socks, a mini skirt, and a vintage crewneck. Or keep it effortless with wide-leg trousers and a tank top for those casual outings and a celeb–in–a–hurry aesthetic
Celeb style inspo:
Gigi Hadid has rocked red Converse with cargo pants, and Rihanna was spotted in cherry red New Balances with a maxi skirt—proving that red kicks work on either coast and every street.
Favorite picks right now:
- Tory Bruch Destiny Trainers – Street-style sneakers in a vivid shade of red
- Adidas Gazelle Bold – A Y2K-inspired staple for sneaker enthusiasts
- Veja Volley OT Sneakers – Sustainable and sleek with hits of red accents
- Autry – Retro everyday sneakers in suede
4. Elevated Red Shoe Styles
Beyond sandals, sneakers, and flats, the best red shoes are showing up in unexpected places this summer—from sportier mules to sleek heels. Update your closet staples like your favorite pump or kitten heel to red and add a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Great for formal wear or with jeans for a night out.
Styles to try:
- Red kitten heels – Add a bold color with instant polish to wide-leg jeans or flowy dresses
- Red pumps – The statement shoe for minimalists, go for one with a pointed toe for a super sleek look
- Red Mules – Mules add an extra cool-girl factor to a denim-on-denim look
Style Tip: Red shoes work beautifully with neutrals (white, beige, black and denim), but don’t be afraid to go tonal with reds, pinks, or even oranges.
5. Outfit Ideas to Style Your Best Red Shoes
Need some inspiration? Here are quick ways to build outfits around your new red shoes:
- Everyday Casual: White tee + baggy jeans + red ballet flats
- Summer Night Out: Silk slip dress + denim jacket + red strappy sandals
- Beach to Dinner: Linen shorts + oversized button-down + red slides
- Office Chic: Wide-leg trousers + black tank + red kitten heels
- Weekend Vibes: Maxi skirt + graphic tees + red sneakers + sunnies
Whether you’re dressing up or keeping it casual, red footwear is the easiest way to inject personality and polish into any summer outfit. Why wear neutral colors when you can add a fun pop to your looks this summer? From sandals to ballet flats to bold sneakers and heels, there’s a style for every vibe and every closet.
