While Southern California can boast beautiful weather year-round, in the summer, the vibes are still different. With so much to do in the area, you want to make sure you’re prepared for any summer invitations you get while also being comfortable. You may already have your summer wardrobe lined up, from flirty dresses to the shortest shorts and oversized tees for days where you’re lounging, but keep reading to make sure you’ve got all the shoes your heart could desire this summer.
Flip-Flops
There isn’t a shoe that’s more of a summer staple than the trusty flip-flop. Not only are they the perfect shoe to walk down the boardwalk, but they are also easy to take on and off on those hot beach days. So, whether you’re more likely to spend your summer on the bustling Santa Monica Beach or something more secluded like the coves at El Matador, keep a pair of flip-flops by the front door, and you’re down for anything.
Sandals
While the flip-flop serves an important role in beach and poolside comfort, their more elevated sister, the sandal, keeps your feet breezy in a lot more style. The great thing about sandals is they come in so many materials, prints and heights. You can easily dress up a maxi dress with the right sandal or dress down a more elevated outfit with another style of sandal. By investing in a few pairs of designer sandals, you’ll be styling all over SoCal, and your feet won’t be sweaty – which is never a good look. If you want to be super on-trend, get at least one pair of women’s platform sandals, as the iconic height of the nineties is what’s “in” more than anything.
Wedges
Another key piece of summer footwear when you’re living in or visiting Southern California is a pair of wedges. Wedges are the high heel’s comfy cousin. While high-heels definitely have their place on lux night-outs for dinner at Nobu, drinks at Delilah, dancing at one of the many fantastic clubs in the area or shopping in Beverly Hills, wedges can keep you chic and comfortable for your daily events. Nothing pairs better with a cute midi dress or a-line skirt and blouse than a pair of stylish wedges. Not to mention, they’re a lot easier to maneuver in while your arms are full of shopping bags. Stay cute and comfortable with a pair of wedges in your summer shoe arsenal.
Bright, White Sneaks
One of the most iconic go-to shoes is the white-on-white low-top sneaker. Whether your style leans toward a low top with laces like the Chuck Taylor or a slip-on style from Vans doesn’t matter, but owning a pair of bright, crispy white sneakers is a must in summer. Clean white sneakers look cute with everything from cut-off denim shorts to your favorite maxi dresses. The great thing about white sneakers is they work year-round, so while they’re a summer staple, you’ll cruise right into fall and winter and still look chic. If the idea of keeping your kicks bright white sounds daunting, just know they clean up easily in the washing machine or with a magic eraser. Plenty of trendsetters opt to let their white sneakers get beat up and age like a fine wine; the choice is yours!
Hiking Boots
If you live in Southern California, you likely spend a ton of time outdoors, appreciating our beautiful views at every turn. Make sure you’re ready to explore the area’s natural beauty safely. Whether hiking Solstice Canyon Trail, exploring Death Valley National Park, or taking things easy on The Big Laguna Trail, you want the safety and ease hiking boots provide. They give your ankles the important protection they require and support your back and footbeds. Hiking boots are a great way to enjoy a day date with your partner or chat and reconnect with friends while enjoying nature.
People’s needs change based on their activity levels, foot shape, and style, but all the above-mentioned shoe styles are a must if you’re looking to maximize your enjoyment of everything that SoCal offers. World-class dining, shopping most of the country only dreams of, and breathtaking sites, to name a few. Make sure you add all the shoes you’re missing, so you don’t miss a moment this summer.
