Chunky Sandals Can Be Tricky to Style, But These 9 Outfits Make It Easy

April 22, 2022 at 06:37AM

So-called “ugly” trends have been reigning supreme for the last couple of years. Dad trainers, knitted tank tops, tie-dye prints and quilted coats are just some of the trends that may have initially raised eyebrows but are now adored by fashion types. This is also the case when it comes to spring/summer 2022’s most prolific shoes.

Chunky sandals started making tracks two years ago when Teva’s double-strap sandals flooded our feeds. Chanel also brought out its own pair of chunky sandals, which, although emblazoned with the iconic double-Cs and finished in bouclé, still fell under the “ugly”-but-somehow-chic category. Last year, Dune treated us to its pair of best-selling Lockstockk sandals, just as The Row’s Ginza platform-sole flip-flops became a status symbol.

ADVERTISEMENT

I watched on, assuming chunky sandals would disappear as quickly as they came. However, as we approach another glorious summer, they’re still at the top of the sandal agenda. I’ll admit I was sceptical at first, but now, I’m a chunky-sandal convert. Having finally invested in my own pair, I’ve been looking for inspiration on how to wear them, of which I’ve found plenty, though the following suggestions are perhaps my favourites. From some of Instagram’s best dressers, the below chunky-sandal outfits will earn you countless compliments this summer.

Toughen up a pretty white dress with a pair of strong black sandals. 

This best-selling dress is already making a huge comeback for 2022. 

Gold hoops are an integral part of the fashion person uniform. 

Mock-croc finishes always look so premium. 

Gingham checks can look too twee if you style them with certain pieces, but not chunky sandals. 

The perfect summer sunhat. 

ADVERTISEMENT



Style these with a white t-shirt underneath is you want a little more coverage. 

Another The Row chunky sandal to add to my wish list. 

Take a pair of jeans, a cute cropped cardigan and your chunkiest sandals and you’ve got a look that’ll work for just about every springtime outing. 

Such a gorgeous colour. 

The detailing on the pockets will bestow your look with some Y2K appeal.

A very sleek take on thong sandals. 

Give your suiting a downtime spin with the addition of a pair of chunky sandals, just like Monikh Dale. 

The oversized silhouette of this blazer allows for low-key styling. 

I’m always drawn to cropped trousers. 

These comfy M&S sandals also come in white and tan. 

I’m dreaming of the days for when I can leave the house in a pair of denim shorts and a vest top and feel comfortable in the temperature. When that day comes, this is the look I’ll be replicating. 

A staple. 

Denim with stretch is always more comfortable. 

I’m here for the moulded sole on these shoes. 

All-black outfits never fail to look stylish—here, the simple pairing of black sandals and a cotton mini dress is effortless to assemble but impactful on the eye. 

Between the puff sleeves and gathered sections, this dress is near perfect in my eyes. 

A little good hardware never hurt anyone. 

Yes, Grenson also does excellent sandals. 

A milkmaid blouse and jeans is the outfit I reach for when I don’t know what to wear. And now, I know which shoes to pair with it. 

Such a cute top. 

Dark indigo denim is bubbling up this season. 

Tan sandals present a softer alternative to jet-black, but are no less versatile. 

This shirt dress will prove invaluable to your summer aesthetic. 

A handbag big enough for all your essentials, without being cumbersome. 

These are guaranteed to appeal to minimalists. 

When I become fatigued of jeans, the first thing I grab is a slip skirt—and I plan on giving my collection of slinky midis structure with some chunky flip-flops like Lucy Williams. 

The tee our editors always recommend. 

Paisley prints will never go out of style. 

Another sleek sandal courtesy of the high street. 

Next Up: I Am 99.9% Certain These Will Be the Most Popular Sandals This Summer

Author Maxine Eggenberger | Whowhatwear
Selected by CWC