Milan’s Street Style Stars Prove Sandal Season Isn’t Over (Yet)

There’s a very short and sweet part of the transitional season when you can wear lovely pairings like sweaters and shorts or jackets and sandals—weather permitting, of course. It’s the type of ensemble Los Angeles locals are lucky enough to don for much of the year. But for the rest of us who don’t call Southern California home, the ideal fall forecast gives us the opportunity to combine the best of our summer and fall wardrobes.

This past week in Milan, showgoers embraced perfect temps in the low 70s and sunny skies, and squeezed out a few extra days of sandal season. Chunky knits and checked trousers were paired with heeled sandals, as were brown leather trousers and blazers. Fuzzy mohair cardigans, midi skirts, velvet jackets, and head-to-toe tailoring could all be seen sported alongside open-toe shoes. The verdict? Sandal season isn’t over just yet.

Come chillier temps, all these looks will pair wonderfully with a knee-high boot or ballet flat, but in the meantime, do as the Milan Fashion Week street style set do and take the opportunity to wear sandals with other classic fall staples.

Find eight ways to wear sandals this season, as inspired by Milan Fashion Week street style, below.

Buckle Down

A pair of buckled mules grounds an oversized knit and flared trousers with ease—no jacket necessary.

Leather Bound

Lighten up patent, crinkled, vintage, or smooth leather separates with strappy sandals in—you guessed it—leather.

Double Take

Wear and rewear an embroidered blouse and tapered trousers with buckled slides now, and repeat later with ankle boots.

Balancing Blocks

A block-heel sandal in metallic can be comfortably worn all year round, from special occasions to the office and beyond.

Lounge Around

When else could you wear cushy, cozy, tartan-print slippers or shearling slides out of the house besides autumn?

Sandals That Suit

A strappy flat leather sandal works surprisingly well with fall’s tailored suits—a neutral brown option gives a solid contrast to an otherwise dark blazer and trousers.

Autumnal Textures

It’s best to stay away from materials that feel too summery, like raffia and rope, and opt for something more aligned with the fall season, such as this satin slide and velvet jacket pairing.

Head Over Heels

You’ll want to wear a pair of Bottega Veneta’s heeled sandals, well, with everything.