9 Types of Sandals to Add to Your Evening Wardrobe

 

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It's easy to see why sandals are a spring and summer fashion staple. They’re comfortable to walk in and come in a variety of designs and heights, so there’s an option for nearly every occasion. While styles like flip-flops and Birkenstocks are suitable for casual daytime outings, an evening affair calls for more sophisticated footwear.

You don’t necessarily need to leave your flat sandals at home, but heeled options will provide a more formal appearance for an evening look. A trendsetter may gravitate towards statement-making options like sculptural or embellished sandals that highlight their eccentric tastes. On the other hand, stiletto sandals have a timeless silhouette that satisfies a minimalist aesthetic and is the most versatile option for evenings out. Regardless of your preferences, it’s typically a good idea to have both statement and neutral sandals in your wardrobe to cover all your bases.

Whether you’re headed to a gala or having a fancy date night, we’ve rounded up 9 sandal types that will upgrade your evening style.

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Strappy Sandals

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Rihanna is a big fan of accessorizing an evening look with strappy sandals, and so are we. Strappy sandals are the perfect shoes to pair with a mini or high-low hemline, drawing the eye upward and adding a bit of drama to any outfit. Take a note from the “Umbrella” singer and color-match your strappy sandals to your dress for a chic monochrome look.

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Platform Sandals

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Take your evening style to new heights by opting for a pair of platform sandals. While the metallic sky-high pair that Elizabeth Banks wore to the Academy Museum Gala may be too bold for your tastes, even low-platform heels will give your ensemble an eye-catching appearance. Whichever heel height you choose, platform sandals are one of the easiest styles to walk in, thanks to their thick base, so it’s guaranteed you’ll be comfortable all night long. 

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Stiletto Sandals

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It doesn’t get more classic than stiletto sandals. Often the go-to style for a night out on the town, stiletto sandals come in a variety of colors and materials, so it’s easy to find a pair that suits your needs. A neutral pair will give you maximum wear, but if you’re looking for a statement shoe that isn’t too over the top, slip on stiletto sandals in a vibrant hue.

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Slide Sandals

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Achieve an effortless evening look with slide sandals. This style tends to have a more casual appearance, so if you want to elevate your shoe, consider a pair with a mid or low-height heel. Their simple silhouette will look fantastic with everything from a sequin cocktail dress to a sleek pantsuit. 

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Sculptural Sandals

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If you define your style as unconventional or bold, consider adding a pair of sculptural sandals to your footwear collection. Whether it’s a mismatched or geometric heel, this style will add a sense of intrigue to your ensemble even when in a neutral hue. Due to their bold design, sculptural sandals are best paired with simple garments, such as a little black dress or a cream coat, for a well-balanced look. 

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Embellished Sandals

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Another option for a statement look is a pair of embellished sandals. They come in many designs – think rhinestones, bows, and studs – making it easy to go as subtle or glamorous as you’d like. For a minimalist look, reach for a pair of slingback sandals with mini bows. Or, for a bolder option, go with wrap sandals covered in crystals.

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Printed Sandals

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Searching for a way to upgrade your black evening attire? Slip on a pair of printed sandals. Animal print sandals, like the ones Behati Prinsloo wore above, make for an edgy look, while a floral pair would suit a more romantic style. To really make your sandals pop, coordinate them with a dress or coat in a similar print. 

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Sequin Sandals

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Complete a shimmering gown with equally as glamorous shoes – a pair of sequin sandals. This high-shine footwear is a great choice for all fancy occasions as it adds a playful element to a more formal ensemble. To avoid veering into costume territory, select a pair in a classic metallic hue or with a lightweight silhouette, such as mules or thin ankle-strap heels.

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T-Bar Sandals

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T-bar sandals may be a beach-day essential, but they’re also fit for an evening look. A patent leather pair is a sleek option for nearly any outfit, but if you prefer your footwear to have a little more pizzazz, we recommend a crystal-embellished design. Embellishments and textures are an especially important addition to flat T-bar sandals, as they help take the footwear from casual to sophisticated for an evening out.