THE JOURNAL

Their foremost function might be to give sweaty toes a little breathing room, but at MR PORTER, we’re keen to stress that sandals are so much more than that. Consider them the cornerstone of a stylish warm-weather wardrobe – a make-or-break piece that can spice up a plain shorts-and-T-shirt combo, and set the tone for the summer ahead. Below, our crack team of stylists has carefully selected out eight open-toed gems from across the site that we’re confident will cater to every taste (be you more Brunello or Bottega). All that’s left on your part is to ensure your feet are perfectly primed for their starring role.
01.
The rock-and-roll CELINE HOMME sandals

If you’re the kind of guy who lives in layers of leather and lashings of black, then there’s a high probability you approach the summer months with nothing short of dread. Thankfully, CELINE HOMME has your shoe game covered at the very least with these punkish, logo-laden canvas sandals that’ll be perfectly in keeping with your signature style.
02.
The bright Bottega Veneta slides

Unabashed comfort addicts, rejoice: pool slides aren’t going anywhere this summer – at least not if Mr Matthieu Blazy has anything to do with it. Case in point: Bottega Veneta’s intrecciato-inspired Carpet slides, which are cast in everything from the brand’s signature green to this serotonin-boosting shade of orange.
03.
The embellished TOM FORD T-bars

If ever you find yourself questioning whether or not exposing one’s toes is terribly uncouth, then rest assured that the impeccably turned-out Mr Tom Ford has given sandals his stamp of approval. In fact, we’d wager that his chocolate-leather, logo-embellished Brighton designs are so undeniably elegant that they could convert even the most resolute closed-toe traditionalists.
04.
The Brunello Cucinelli flip-flop upgrade

These simple sandals by Brunello Cucinelli might follow the lead of the humble rubber flip-flop, but don’t get it twisted. With their luxurious leather trim and grosgrain straps, their wearable appeal extends far beyond the poolside and late-night trips to the corner shop.
05.
The utilitarian Officine Creative sandal

These khaki-coloured picks by Officine Creative are rather reminiscent of utilitarian hiking-style sandals – albeit with a suitably sumptuous upgrade. Rather than nylon they’re crafted from a supple calf leather, while chunky buckles are dispensed with altogether for a streamlined, contemporary profile.
06.
The nubuck The Row sandal

If you’re keen to make a statement in splashy prints and standout hues this summer, then The Row’s latest collection probably won’t be atop your Wish List (and you should probably keep scrolling). However, if it’s dialled-down timeless pieces you’re on the hunt for, then the cult Manhattan label’s nubuck sandals are pretty much exquisite taste in summer shoe form.
07.
The crossover Mr P. slip-on

Our in-house label, Mr P., might be all about equipping modern men with a wardrobe of handsome everyday essentials, but we equally believe “basics” needn’t translate to, well, “basic”. Take these suede Italian-made slip-on sandals for example, which are tricked out with colourful contrast webbing and clever crossover detail to set them apart from the crowd.
08.
The zebra-print SAINT LAURENT showstoppers

This season, SAINT LAURENT’s Mr Anthony Vaccarello is making the case for sandals as the centrepiece of your outfit – rather than mere finishing touch – by way of these zebra-print head-turners. Better yet, you’ll be pleased to discover they’re crafted from a plush calf hair, which makes them twice as delightful to wear as they are to behold.