The summer shoe hack everyone’s raving about—closed toes, total comfort, zero sweat!

Why Closed Summer Shoes Are the Season’s Best-Kept Secret

This summer, not everyone wants to reveal their toes in open sandals—whether for comfort, personal style or simply a preference for a more modest look. Enter closed yet breathable summer shoes: a clever category of footwear that keeps your feet covered and protected while still letting air circulate on hot days. From sleek mules to airy mesh ballerinas, these styles strike the perfect balance between style and discretion.

Key Trends for Closed Summer Shoes in 2025

Fashion runways and street style stars agree on a few recurring motifs this year:

Minimalist silhouette: Clean lines and neutral hues dominate, making shoes easy to pair with any outfit.

Lightweight materials: Natural leathers, canvas and mesh keep feet cool without adding bulk.

Artisanal details: Subtle embellishments—like metallic buckles or woven trim—add a touch of personality.

Comfort-focused soles: Flexible rubber or low block heels support hours of wear.

Mules & Sabots: Effortless Chic for Every Occasion

Mules and sabots are the unsung heroes of summer footwear. With closed toes and open backs—or a sturdy pair of clogs—they offer slip-on convenience and a refined edge. Key features include:

Covered toe: Provides protection from the sun and stray debris.

Open heel: Delivers breathability and an easy on-off fit.

Low to mid heel: Offers subtle lift without compromising comfort.

Pair your loafers-style mules with cropped linen trousers for a smart-casual look, or slide into sabots with a flowy midi dress for effortless boho charm. A neutral palette—think beige, slate grey or tan—ensures these shoes transition seamlessly from day to night.

Boho-Chic Clogs: Comfort Meets Style

Clogs have made a roaring comeback, inspired by the bohemian flair of festival fashion. Modern clogs feature:

Chunky wooden or cork soles: Offer stable support and a striking visual lift.

Soft leather uppers: Contour to the foot for a snug yet breathable fit.

Decorative studs or laser-cut patterns: Add an artisanal, handcrafted feel.

For an on-trend ensemble, style clogs with a wide-leg jumpsuit or a tiered maxi skirt. The added height and unique silhouette of clogs instantly elevate even the simplest of outfits.

Mesh Ballerinas: Delicate Coverage with a Modern Twist

Mesh ballerinas—sometimes called “see-but-not-see” flats—offer a playful transparency while keeping toes discreetly under wraps. Features to look for:

Breathable mesh panels: Promote airflow and prevent overheating.

Pointed or round toe: Shapes vary based on preference for classic or contemporary style.

Thin leather lining: Maintains structure and prevents the mesh from stretching excessively.

Choose soft pastel mesh flats for a subtle, feminine look or go for metallic mesh ballerinas to inject a dose of glamour into a cropped jeans-and-tee combo. These flats work wonders with tailored shorts or a pleated skirt—without exposing every inch of skin.

Fisherman Sandals: The Best of Both Worlds

Fisherman sandals, also known as cage sandals or “granny sandals,” combine the coverage of a closed shoe with the ventilation of an open design. Key characteristics include:

Multiple straps: Crisscross leather or fabric straps create a lattice effect.

Adjustable buckles: Customize fit for maximum comfort.

Flat or low-heel sole: Ensures all-day wearability.

These sandals pair perfectly with relaxed tailoring—think linen trousers or tapered chinos—and also look chic with sundresses or culottes. Their structured design adds modern interest while maintaining a breezy feel.

Styling Tips for Mastering Closed Summer Shoes

To make the most of these covered-yet-cool styles, follow these simple guidelines:

Balance proportions: Offset a chunky clog or mule with a slender outfit piece, like a fitted tank top or skinny jeans.

Embrace contrasts: Mix a delicate mesh ballerina with a rugged denim jacket for an edgy twist.

Stick to neutral hues: Cream, stone, tan and black ensure your shoes complement any seasonal palette.

Play with texture: Pair leather mules with linen clothing or mesh flats with a silk blouse for tactile variety.

Accessorize thoughtfully: A minimalist ankle bracelet or delicate toe ring can finish your look without overwhelming your closed-toe style.

Whether you’re exploring sun-drenched city streets, attending an alfresco lunch or simply seeking that perfect laid-back vibe, closed summer shoes deliver versatility, comfort and an unexpected dash of sophistication. This season, embrace styles that let you discover without revealing—and keep your feet both cool and confidently covered.