Summer 2014 Trend: Summer Slides

Unless you've been living under a rock for the past few months, you know that the once squirm-worthy Birkenstocks are this summer's must-have shoe. Megawatt brands such as Givenchy, Céline, and Giambattista Valli have been jumping on the podiatric bandwagon, and let's not forget how many celebrities and tastemakers have been spotted sporting this comfortable shoe. But what's a style savant to do if she (or he) can't stop thinking of this ugly chic trend as purely ugly? Become a trend slave and wear the kicks regardless? Instead, feast your eyes upon this season's other major footwear trend: the slide. Yes, they're also making a major comeback. Though pulling out those sporty pool slides you'd wear after swimming a few laps or during a shower in your college dorm offers a blast from the past, there are so many incredible market finds that are begging to be worn that you are bound to find the perfect shoe. While Miuccia Prada mixed unapologetically flashy gems with a sportier silhouette, Tibi's Amy Smilovic added funky embellishments to a minimalist silhouette. J.W. Anderson offered a refreshing twist on this classic silhouette with a square fold-over. Whether you love Chloé's spring or pre-fall take on this trend, one thing is for sure: Clare Waight Keller's magic touch includes a dash of metal hardware. And if you're not wanting to splurge on a new pair of the au courant sandal, it's okay to take a sartorial trip down memory lane by giving your trust pool slides from many moons ago a second life-- Rita Ora made ordinary extraordinary with striped socks. Birkenstocks, meet your match.

Prada SS 2014, Look 12

Tibi SS 2014, Look 1

J.W. Anderson SS 2014, Look 8

Chloé Pre-Fall, Look 23

Rita Ora

Whether you're hitting the beach or heading out to your favorite summer hot-spot for drinks, think of these kicks as essentials to every summer outfit. Since these shoes have such a simple silhouette, they are extremely versatile. I love the juxtaposition of this minimalist shoe with a dainty slip dress-- the combination screams effortlessly chic. Feeling a little sporty? Try a pair of tailored shorts with a lightweight sweater. For a borrowed from the boys look, try these shoes with a pair of cozy linen pants. Something tells me you're going to get a lot of mileage out of these kicks.

1. Marc Jacobs 2. Common Projects 3. Asos 4. Chloé 5. Tibi 6. Newbark

Will you invest in summer slides this season? Sound off below! 

xx