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Hollywood stars are no strangers to the power of comfortable shoes on the red carpet. Take it from Jennifer Lawrence, who stepped out at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival in a dreamy red Christian Dior gown with (drum roll, please) black flip-flops.
The Oscar-winning actress attended the premiere of the French film, Anataomie D’une Chute, and originally arrived in the haute couture silk crepe dress and matching red heels (also by Dior), and changed into more stair-friendly steppers. The Hunger Games star was also there to support Bread and Roses, the Sahra Mani-directed documentary she produced that intimately documents life for the women of Afghanistan after the Taliban seized Kabul in 2021.
It’s not the first time that an A-list star ditched stilettos in favor of comfy feet at Cannes. Dame Helen Mirren sported Cariuma’s eco-conscious kicks at the film fest in 2021, and Kristen Stewart kicked off her Christian Louboutin heels and went barefoot there in 2018 (she’s also been known to pair mini dresses with Converse sneakers). Elsewhere, Chloé Zhao wore a head-to-toe Hermès look (which included white sneakers) to the Oscars for her historic win for best director, and Questlove has worn Crocs to the Grammys and the Academy Awards.
In the spirit of stars who prefer function over toe-blistering fashion, check out some of the best black sandals for summer — designer gown optional. For those who don’t like the feel of thongs between their toes, we’ve also rounded up the best women’s slides and other open-toed options. Whether you’re pairing them with white tees and wide-leg jeans for errands or with a party dress for a festive occasion, see our top picks ranging from Havaianas’ beach-ready flip-flops to and everything in between.
Reformation Jessie Thong Sandal
These flat-soled calf leather sandals are the epitome of refined, elegant and easy.
Havaianas Slim Flip Flops
There’s a reason why Havaianas is considered one of the best flip-flop brands. The Brazilian sandal label’s best-selling Slim style has a cushioned footbed with a textured rice pattern to keep your feet from sliding. (The label has been spotted on everyone from Jennifer Lopez and Reese Witherspoon to Ana de Armas and Mary-Kate Olsen.)
The Row Ginza Sandal
If you prefer to splurge on a simple and classic silhouette, The Row’s minimalist-chic (inspired by the stylish Tokyo district) are the way to go. Made in Italy of luxe leather, they feature a sturdy rubber sole that’s equal parts cool and comfy.
Ancient Greek Sandals Charys Leather Sandals
Ancient Greek Sandals make some of the best leather shoes in the game. Throw these in your suitcase and we can assure you’ll wear them pretty much every day on vacation.
Tony Bianco Ives Sandal
Often dubbed one of the best lookalikes of , Tony Bianco’s best-selling Ives Sandal have the same minimalist Japanese-inspired silhouette for a fraction of the price.
Birkenstock Eva Arizona Waterproof Sandal
Hollywood-loved gorp-core brand Birkenstock’s classic Arizona slides get a waterproof (and pool-ready) update in these with a contoured footbed.
Staud Dante Leather Thong Sandals
Simple, streamlined and effortlessly chic, Staud’s Dante sandals are crafted from smooth leather and comfortable cushioned footbeds.
Everlane The Day Crossover Sandal
Angelina Jolie, Meghan Markle and Gigi Hadid have been spotted in Everlane’s minimalist pieces. The brand’s buttery leather Day Crossover sandals are among the best shoes for summer, thanks to their versatile style that goes with practically everything.
Steve Madden Kylen Black Leather Sandals
The bubbled chenille flatform sole adds a fun twist to this .
