Sandals are a summer wardrobe staple you can wear with several outfits, such as women’s dresses and pants. Comfort and good looks are important when it comes to any footwear. You’ll find plenty of sandal varieties that provide both to suit your preferences. Keep reading to learn more about what makes a sandal comfortable and how to style your outfit around them.

Select the Right Size

When sandal shopping, there are some specifics to note. Make sure your toes don’t hang over the front of the shoe, and the same goes for your heels. Your foot should fit comfortably within the sandal footbed. Just as you don’t want sandals that are too small, you also don’t want them to be too big. If they are, then your foot might slide out when you walk.

Even if you think you know your shoe size, measure your feet and check the measurements against the size chart to ensure they fit properly. Sometimes, you might need to go up or down a half-size for an optimum fit.

Shop for the Occasion

There’s a sandal for every situation. If you’re headed to the beach or pool, look for a flat sandal that’s water-resistant and fast drying. Flip-flop sandals are great when wearing swimsuits. They’re made to withstand exposure to water and sun, and they provide a cushiony feel beneath your feet. If you get sand on them, you can rinse them off with water and they’ll be dry in no time. Some flip-flops are even made with recycled materials, making them an eco-friendly fashion choice.

If you’re looking for a cute sandal to wear on those casual weekends, consider a pair of espadrilles. This sandal style is often crafted from cotton canvas for durability and style. They come in a variety of colors to match your favorite outfits. You might find espadrilles with jute detailing, such as around the midsole. Jute is a natural, sustainable material used for everything from footwear to home decor items, such as welcome mats.

Another type of sandal to consider is an all-weather walking sandal. This footwear is designed to keep your feet comfortable, no matter how many steps you take. Look for details like an EVA footbed, which absorbs shock and adds a cushion between your feet and the ground. Another feature you’ll want in a walking sandal is a rubber outsole for traction on slick surfaces. This sandal goes well with everything from women’s khaki shorts to a skort, which has the look of a skirt with the comfort and coverage of shorts.

Date night calls for a sandal with flirty style. Consider pairing suede slingback wedge sandals with your favorite sundress or opt for a suede slingback mule with a low heel. This sandal has a strap around the heel for a snug fit, so your feet won’t slide out when you walk.

Create a Coordinated Look

Now that we’ve talked about how to select comfortable sandals for every occasion, let’s talk more about fashion options. As mentioned, sundresses go great with sandals. This dress style is very versatile—you can wear it for day or evening. But if you prefer a skirt, you could wear a midi skirt or maxi skirt with sandals.

Women’s shorts also look great with various styles of sandals. For example, you could wear Bermuda shorts with an open-toe slide sandal for a casual, beachy look. Slides come in lots of different colors, so it’s easy to find a pair that coordinates with the rest of your outfit.

You can even wear sandals with jeans. A pair of high-rise jeans with a knit top and heeled wedges is an on-trend outfit that works for most any casual occasion. Capri pants also look great with sandals, and they have a summery look that’s great for wearing on vacation.

It’s not necessary to match your sandal color to your outfit, but you certainly can do so if that’s the look you prefer. Another way to wear sandals is to contrast the color with the rest of your apparel. For example, if you’re wearing a little black dress, add a pop of vibrant color with a pair of red sandals. Or, contrast a brightly colored outfit with sandals in a neutral tone, such as black, white, or sand.

Maintain Your Sandals

Keeping your sandals in good condition can help them last longer. Plus, it also ensures they keep a like-new appearance, even if you’ve worn them all summer. The best way to clean your sandals depends on the material from which they’re made. Synthetic materials and some natural materials can be cleaned with a gentle detergent and warm water, then air-dried. A soft-bristled brush can be used to remove dirt.

If you have leather sandals, avoid submerging them in water. Leather sandals aren’t recommended to wear with bathing suits at the beach or pool because you don’t want them to get too wet. You can wipe them down with a cloth that’s been lightly dampened with an equal mixture of water and white vinegar and a soft cloth to keep them clean and prevent discoloration. Now that you know how to choose style and care for sandals, all that’s left to do is shop!