There are few high-street heroes we come back to every single time, and M&S is the prime example. Always marrying style and comfort brilliantly, the retailer is known for its ability to produce could-be designers items at high street price points. So, when we embarked on a hunt for the perfect summer sandals, the M&S sandals section was our first port of call.
M&S's collection consists of hundreds of ready-to-wear sandals, each one more comfortable than the next. From Birkenstock-esque sandals, to Fisherman sandals that look exactly like the The Row's, there's truly something for everyone. The only thing you have to worry about? The styling.
Socks and sandals are like marmite but there are ways to style them to make them look a little more chic and give an eclectic twist to any preppy outfit. Start with a pair of sleek, minimalist sandals - think leather sliders or something with a chunky black sole. The key is to contrast, pair your dark-coloured sandals with delicate white socks, or even sheer socks for a playful juxtaposition. Or, match bold graphic socks with a pair of sandals that feature a more classic silhouette.
Asymmetric sandals are another great way to add some dimension into your outfit. To balance out their more avant-garde style and unconventional lines, add a tailored waistcoat, paired with either a matching skirt or wide leg trousers.
Strappy sandals are, of course, a summer classic. Featuring sleek minimalist straps that wrap around your feet, these sandals are perfect for a daytime look. Poppy Delevingne was spotted in Cannes this month wearing an outfit you can copy easily with a cream linen blazer, white bodysuit, a pair of denim shorts and some gold strappy sandals. The versatility of strappy sandals also makes them great for transitioning from day to night, which means they're a brilliant holiday staple.
Grazia's shopping editor, Julia Harvey, popped into store to try on some of the best available. Here's what she found:
'You can always rely on M&S for a great, affordable find - pieces you'll wear again and again that soon earn their keep. The current collection of sandals does not disappoint, with everything from raffia, patterned slides, leather fisherman sandals and even gladiator styles - perfect for 2024s boho revival. I usually wear sandals all summer season rather than trainers or loafers, so this collection is perfect. I'll be wearing my favourites with baggy jeans and a tank top for an easy summer wardrobe win. After trying on plenty of pairs, I noticed these styles came up a little larger size-wise, so if you're between sizes (like me, a UK 6.5) opt for the size down.'
Shop: The Best M&S Sandals
M&Swww.marksandspencer.com
Raffia and summer go hand-in-hand. These woven sandals are perfect for matching with a similar raffia handbag and a floaty summer dress. They'll be sure to add a chunky edge to your ensemble, with its two secure buckle fastenings and low tan sole.
www.marksandspencer.com
This fisherman sandal hybrid is easy to wear, super comfortable and bang on trend for this summer, choose from black or tan leather for a pair of sandals that offer a little more coverage.
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As we welcome back boho for the season ahead, the first point of call to get back into the trend is investing in a pair of gladiator sandals. This chic, simple take on gladiator sandals is available in wide-fit and in black or tan leather.
M&Swww.marksandspencer.com
Inject a pop of colour into your footwear by adding these flat mules to your shoe collection. The raffia design is woven with black and tan or in a green and blue colourway, which would both look so chic paired with a white linen set. The mules also have Freshfeet technology to help keep your feet feeling cool, even after all-day wear.
M&Swww.marksandspencer.com
If you love the Hermès Chypre sandal, but not the price or the absolute battle to get your hands on a pair, M&S has released a pair that is similar. The sandals have a comfy footbed and a riptape fastening for easy on and off. They're also finished with gorgeous white raffia detailing on the straps.
M&Swww.marksandspencer.com
The design of these Flatform sandals isn't too far from highly-coveted The Row Ginza sandal. These beige sandals are a capsule wardrobe staple. The colour alone is extremely wearable, and so is the toe thong style. Plus, they're super cushioned in the heel.
M&Swww.marksandspencer.com
Fisherman sandals are having a moment right now, mainly because they're highly practical and stylish. Debuted first by The Row, M&S has made its own version, available in either black or brown leather. These are, however, best for wide feet.
M&Swww.marksandspencer.com
If you're worried about finding a pair of sandals that look great and can handle the thousands of steps you'll be doing as you explore this summer, the M&S Flatform sandals have your back - and feet. With their comfy soles and soft leather straps, these are the shoes you'll be reaching for again and again as the weather gets warmer.
M&Swww.marksandspencer.com
Silver isn't just for Christmas time, it can be worn in the hotter months too. These silver sandals feature a classic slip-on style, with a flat sole for easy wear. The simplicity of the sandals mean they can go with absolutely anything - whether that be a pair of wide leg linen trousers or a maxi dress.
M&Swww.marksandspencer.com
You really can't go wrong with a pair of strappy sandals for summer. Super easy to style, slip on and walk thousands of steps in.
M&Swww.marksandspencer.com
Following suit from many high-street retailers, M&S has released its own (slightly tweaked) version of the Hermès Oran sandals. Featuring comfortable flat soles, squared open toes and tan thick straps, these sandals truly are a capsule wardrobe essential and a must-have for the warmer months.
How do I know if my sandals fit me right?
A well-fitting pair of sandals should be a breeze to put on and take off, and should cradle your feet without pinching or leaving excessive space. Your heel should rest comfortably on the footbed without hanging over the edge, and there should also be a gap between your longest toe and the front edge of the sandal. Basically, a good sandal should feel like you're not wearing sandals at all.
What sandals are in fashion right now?
This summer expect to see the resurgence of fisherman sandals thanks to brands like The Row and Me+Em, who have taken this style of practical sandal and upgraded it with suede features and a variety of colours.
For those seeking a touch of elegance, small heeled mules and barely-there thong sandals are perfect for pairing with evening outfits, like satin dresses and linen suits. Plus, don't overlook the platform sandal, which brings a chunky and contemporary twist to a 90s style sandal.
Main image credit: Instagram/@marksandspencer @marksandspencerstyle
Gemma Lavers is a Fashion Writer at Bauer Media, writing for brands like Grazia, heat and Closer. Gemma specialises in all things clothing and enjoys outfit planning (especially for holidays), scrolling social media for the next trend and shopping (probably for a new coat).