Spring shoe selections for eclectic shoppers

spring to summer sneakers, slip-ons, and sandals that merge comfort and style

Mar 28, 2024

On a video call the other day, my mom held up her new shoes and said, “you need to put these in your newsletter. I get so many compliment on them!” (I picked out the pair of cute pink loafers during a DSW sale and sent her a link because I consider myself an amateur personal shopper.)

Instead of sharing just one pair of spring shoes today, I rounded up a whole bunch! This collection of spring to summer footwear focuses on comfort first, with style a very close second. I’m sharing a mix of shoes I can personally vouch for and shoes I’ve had my eye on for awhile. The older I get, the more inclined I am to spend more money on shoes that will last; most of the shoes on this list range from $50-$120. Some links listed are affiliate links (because our grocery bill continues to climb) but the real reward for me is helping you find shoes you love this season.

I asked my Instagram followers what kind of shoes they’re looking for this season, and the most popular answer by far was “slip-ons.” I don’t know about y’all, but my ankles tend to slip out of shoes, and backless shoes are a no-go since I passed 30 years of age. However, now that I’m wrangling a toddler nearly every time I leave the house, I understand the value of being able to quickly slip on a pair of shoes and get out the door. Rather than reaching for the clogs or ballet flats of my youth, I searched for cute step-in or slip-on sneakers.

Slip-On Shoes

You might have seen the brand Kizik pop up on Instagram in the last few years. They make sneakers designed to step in and go, and it looks like they’ve added some stylish new designs.

Lima: traditional sneakers with extra cushion for walking.

Brisbane: retro-sporty sneakers in fun color ways.

Milan: slim sneakers that come in nylon or leather.

I also like these New Balance slip-ons in cream or, for a less sporty look, these Dr. Scholls low-top slides.

Sneakers

The second most-requested shoe was sneakers: pink sneakers, not-too-American travel shoes, cool athletic shoes, and shoes to wear with dresses or wide leg jeans—for which I recommend classic white sneakers.

Madewell Court Sneakers: I own and adore a similar version of these. They’re my favorite when paired with a sundress, linen pants, or jeans—but especially with dresses and skirts. I’d argue that in today’s dress code, leather sneakers can easily be dressed up or down. Madewell’s entire sneaker selection is stylish and well-made.

Tretorn Rawlins Sneakers: I bought these on a whim from Costco (I know! Random.) but they’re not available there anymore. Still pretty affordable, these lightweight sneakers also pair well with spring or summer dresses.

New Balance Classics in Green: Happy birthday to me! These springy green sneakers just arrived on my doorstep, and I can’t wait to wear them when the puddles clear up. I wanted something bold to punch up my wardrobe, and these should do the trick.

I’m eyeing the Hoff brand sneakers, thanks to an Instagram ad. Their color combinations are so pleasing.

For a more athletic look, you can’t go wrong with Nike or New Balance.

Some notes: white sneakers look great with wide leg pants, and you can totally wear sneakers on a tour of Europe (or anywhere) without looking like an American. It’s all about the outfit.

Flats, Sandals & Misc.

I had the cutest collection of ballet flats when I was in high school and college. Leopard print, bold colors, florals, the works. They didn’t last long, though, and let’s be honest—they smelled bad. If I were to dress up for work now, these are the shoes I’d wear: Madewell loafers. Gah, so chic. Or a more affordable pair from Dr. Scholls.

For summertime strolls or trips to the zoo, I’m returning to my beloved Teva Hurricane sandals. Are they the most fashion-forward? No. But my feet don’t care after walking miles in them, and they’ve lasted me three summers so far.

If I choose to expand my sandal collection this year, I’ll add something comfortable but slightly more dressed up than the Hurricanes. I’m looking at the Teva Maderas because I have to have a strap on the back of my foot, and comfort is still #1.

Finally, a good running shoe is essential for spring walks and long summer hikes. I love my Brooks running shoes, and I’m devoted to Merrell hiking boots. As much as I love a trendy shoe (see note about former leopard print ballet flats above), sometimes function outranks form.

The Eclectic Reader

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