ELLE Editors Share Their Favorite Heels for the Dog Days of Summer

“Comfy beach sandals, sneakers, and espadrilles get the bulk of the spotlight when temperatures spike, but every year, at least one summer occasion comes around where I need a pair of statement heels. I love the look and fit of these L’Agence mule sandals with a three and one-half inch heel, perfect for elevating a night-out look, but comfortable enough to wear beyond the walk from the front door to the cab. I particularly enjoy pairing the gold style with wide-leg trousers; the metallic shimmer acts as its own accessory.”—Lauren Puckett-Pope, culture writer

Sizes: 35-42

Colors: Dark Blue Denim, Ecru Leather, Gold Metallic Leather, Pecan Suede

Materials: Denim, Leather, or Suede

“I’m all about a kitten heel in the summer. Those barely-there silhouettes allow me to easily make my rounds about the city without ever feeling off balance. In my opinion, Toteme makes one of the best, high-quality kitten heels that are crafted in Italy. What’s even better? This pair looks great with every summer outfit in my closet.”—Alexis Bennett Parker, commerce content lead

Sizes: 36-41

Colors: Black

Materials: Leather

“Not too much on the wedge slander, especially in the summer, okay? If you’re commuting or walking to the function, a practical heel is key. One of my favorite pairs of sandals, from Reformation, are minimal yet chic and stand at an easy height.”—Erica Gonzales, senior culture editor

Sizes: 5-11

Colors: Oak Leather, Almond, Roccia Snake

Materials: Calf leather

“My cardinal rule of vacation packing is to never bring block heels because they take up too much room in a carry-on. These Staud mules have accompanied me everywhere, from beaches to cities to vineyards, and fortunately, they go with everything.”—Claire Stern Milch, digital director

Sizes: 35-42

Colors: Paper

Materials: Goatskin

“While I wont to fall prey to certain summer footwear trends, the rise—and reign—of metallic shoes have a chokehold on me like no other. There are a lot of options to choose from for this trend, but I’m a big fan of Britt Netta’s slingback, which features a mesh upper that serves as the perfect way to dress up your summer ’fits while also showcasing your fresh pedicure.”—Dale Arden Chong, senior fashion commerce editor

Sizes: 35-41

Colors: Silver Mirror, Disco Denim, Snow White, Sand

Materials: Mesh and laminated kid leather

“It’s no secret that Margaux knows a thing or two about creating a comfortable heel—just consult the near-perfect 4.8-star rating from customer reviews for proof. Of course, it doesn’t hurt that these come in such a wide range of sizes and have a lower block heel to keep you feeling stable.”—Dale Arden Chong, senior fashion commerce editor

Sizes: 33-45

Colors: Black Patent, Silver Mirror, Dune Nappa, Gold Mirror

Materials: Italian Nappa leather

“As the proud owner of a pair of Khaite shoes, I can attest that the New York-based label knows how to make sleek and stylish shoes that are also surprisingly comfortable. What makes this snake print sandal work is the lower pitch combined with the wedge heel, while the delicate straps soften the overall look.”—Dale Arden Chong, senior fashion commerce editor

Sizes: 36-41

Colors: Natural Python-Embossed Leather, Black Leather, Beige Leather

Materials: Calfskin

“When in doubt, you can’t go wrong with a classic Gucci pump. Wear these for the remainder of summer and through the fall until the temperatures start to drop. I can’t think of any reason not to get these because they’re simply a classic—can you?”—Dale Arden Chong, senior fashion commerce editor

Sizes: 35.5-40

Colors: Black

Materials: Leather

“No matter how many times I see Bottega Veneta’s signature Intrecciato technique, I never get tired of it. In the form of the label’s Blink sandal, it feels fresh with the twisted detail. Whether you’re a bride in need of a pretty wedding shoe or an attending guest, I have a feeling these could be one of your go-to summer heels for the season.”—Dale Arden Chong, senior fashion commerce editor

Sizes: 35-42

Colors: New Orange, Sea Salt

Materials: Leather

“Every time my friends ask me about shoe designers who hit the perfect balance of of-the-moment trends and accessible price points, I always tell them I swear by Charles & Keith shoes. I own a handful of styles from the Singaporean label, which are so comfortable that I can spend hours on my feet throughout the day. Need I say more”—Dale Arden Chong, senior fashion commerce editor

Sizes: 4-11

Colors: Nude, Silver, Denim Blue, Black

Material: Denim

“It’s not every day you may want to sport an eye-catching shoe. That said, when the day does come, these are a great option to slip on. The exaggerated bow detail will undoubtedly turn some heads, but it’s still subtle enough not to distract from the rest of your outfit.”—Dale Arden Chong, senior fashion commerce editor

Sizes: 36-41

Colors: Black, Beige

Materials: Grosgrain

“Let’s be honest: Who doesn’t love a good Y2K-style shoe? I can imagine these styled with everything from a pretty silk slip dress to a denim midi skirt or high-waisted trousers. So, what are you waiting for? Choose your own adventure.”—Dale Arden Chong, senior fashion commerce editor

Sizes: 5-10

Colors: Espresso, Black, Red, Butterscotch, Blossom

Material: Suede

“These Larroudé Mary Jane heels add a flair of girlishness to any look for those summer nights out. I’ve worn these heels to events and while walking through New York City for miles. While they are not sneakers, they pass the test as a very wearable, polished going-out shoe. What’s even better? You can grab a pair for half the price with Nordstrom’s sale.”—Alyssa Bailey, senior editor, news and strategy

Sizes: 5-10

Colors: Black, Silver

Materials: Leather

“For no particular reason, the idea of minimalistic polished wedge sandals has been living rent-free in my mind. Perhaps it’s time to make some room for them to live rent-free in my closet, instead—and these St. Agni sandals will be just the pair to do it.”—Dale Arden Chong, senior fashion commerce editor

Sizes: 35-42

Colors: Red, White, Black

Materials: Leather

“She’s versatile, she’s cute, she’s Gloria. With the ideal heel height for walking and ultimate comfort, these sandals are a go-to. They’re definitely coming with me to a wedding in Greece this summer!”—Leah Romero, senior digital designer

Sizes: 5-11

Colors: 6 options

Material: Sheepskin leather