Earlier this month, in the comments of my Ultimate Guide to Summer Comfort Shoes Post, several readers asked for recommendations for cute closed-toe summer shoes. Runners’ toenails; hiking toe protection; closed-toe work requirements; and of course the obvious reason (that I am still giggling about from Reader Erin)–it looks like a raccoon painted your toenails due to lack of professional options during physical distancing.
Closed-Toe Shoes For Summer: Make ‘Em Cute
I cheerfully accepted this cute closed-toe summer shoe options challenge.
Not a big deal…I *thought* I would just round up all the cute closed-toe sandals out there and throw it together in a quick post. Hmmmm…not so easy. As Reader Jessica said in the comments, a perfect closed-toe comfortable and cute option for warm weather may be the unicorn of shoes. I expanded my search beyond just my fav comfort shoe brands. Hmmmm…still struggling. I opened it up to include my well-worn peep-toe sandals (currently on sale) that cover some of my toes…now I’m not even following the rules of the challenge. Ugh.
Why is this so hard? I’m feeling your pain, Readers Jessica, Caroline and MC. I eventually figured out I had to change my way of thinking about this challenge. I did not find many options for what I had originally pictured as a cute summery comfort shoe brand sandal (that just happened to cover your toes), but I did find five great categories of closed-toe shoes that I personally would wear in the summer. I’m hoping that other folks will chime in with more suggestions!
If you know specifically what you’re interested in, go straight to the category here:
Espadrilles | Clogs | Flats | Mules | Sports Sandals
1 | 2 | 3 or 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10
Summer Shoes: Closed-Toe Espadrilles

At Nordstrom | At Eileen Fisher | At Nordstrom Rack (Similar)
Summer Shoes: Closed-Toe Clogs

At Etsy | At Lotta | At Amazon
Summer Shoes: Closed-Toe Flats

At Everlane (**Sustainable Pick**)
Summer Shoes: Closed-Toe Mules

At Shekudo (**Black-Owned Business – Sustainable Pick**)
Summer Shoes: Sporty Closed-Toe Sandals

One More…
One more thought regarding this challenge…if I needed a closed-toe shoe for work purposes and was on my feet all day, I personally would go Fly London, but I know their style isn’t for everyone, and they’re not SUPER summery (in terms of sandal feel). Fly Londons, though, provide just the right amount of comfort and support for my feet and I LOVE them. Been wearing them for years and years.
What options did I miss, guys? Shout ’em out!
-Linzi
I have some Dansko Thea clogs that I bought years ago (possibly based on a recommendation from Shana?!?) that have been a staple for me to wear to the office in summer. Highly recommend.
https://www.amazon.com/Dansko-Womens-Thea-Ankle-Sandal/dp/B005DXNJJ8
These are so good!!! Thanks for sharing.
I have and love the leopard print Lotta from Stockholm clogs. I have a mild addiction to checking the sale & seconds section on their website on a regular basis, just to see what goodies have popped up in my size.
They do have a great selection…and those leopard print Lottas are so cool. Yay for good sale sections!
I just got the Dansko Betsey in Cinnamon and love them! I wanted something summery, but to keep my un-pedicured troll toes hidden. Also, sadly dealing with plantar faciatis, which is making me feel quite old! Very comfortable and pass the cute test too.
Oh so glad to hear, Katie! You know I’m always so happy to hear when Danskos save the day. : )
Ha! I’m with you, Katie – covered toes and arch support are a must. Linzi, thanks for the recommendations. I’m going to give the Dansko Kristy a go – the lower straps and buckle (rather than across the front of the ankle) look interesting.