While autumn is all about trainers (just ask Chanel), summer's must-have sandals come in all manner of permutations, although the styles that are topping editors' wish lists are far from feminine. Nothing says "I'm fashionable" this season more than a pair of ugly shoes.
Blame it on Phoebe Philo who shocked stiletto-loving fashionistas when she sent fur-lined Birkenstocks down Céline's spring-summer 2013 catwalks. A year on and almost every designer has their own version of the so-called mandal - a men's inspired sandal with chunky leather straps, buckles and a thick sole.
While there's no denying that these bulky Birkenstock-inspired styles score high on the comfort list (why else would they be the footwear of choice for backpackers?) they aren't the prettiest of shoes.
To make them easier on the eye, designs combine comfort and style. Top picks include Givenchy, whose style comes decorated in their spring-summer 2014 floral print. Meanwhile, French couturier Giambattista Valli has collaborated with Birkenstock on a deluxe pair in pastel pink and decorated with silver studs.
When Miuccia Prada sent out her bright yellow styles covered in gobstopper-sized crystals, we knew this was a serious trend (just make sure you leave the matching striped socks at home). Now everyone has jumped on the bandwagon including Balenciaga, whose all black leather style is decorated with gold studs for a luxe look.
