If you are like me and trainers are your go-to footwear for almost every occasion, you might be ready to swap them for sandals as the weather warms up. This season, one retailer has truly excelled in summer footwear that looks great and offers exceptional comfort.
Marks and Spencer Summer Sandals Top Picks
Marks and Spencer has built a reputation for fashionable pieces at reasonable prices without sacrificing quality, as reported by the Mirror. In search of new sandals for my summer collection, I tried on multiple pairs in store and found four outstanding styles worth adding to my holiday suitcase and everyday wardrobe.
The high street stalwart offers a style for every scenario, from sophisticated flatforms to bohemian-inspired mules. Here are the M&S sandals I would gladly swap my trainers for this summer.
Triple Buckle Footbed Sandals (£36)
These triple buckle footbed sandals instantly grabbed my attention. The rich burgundy tone and pewter hardware feel premium but cost only £36. They feature a flatform sole and contoured footbed for support. The three buckled straps provide an adjustable fit, and the glossy finish looks elegant, not cheap. They are secure and comfortable to walk in, suitable for city sightseeing or weekend errands.
One shopper described them as a 'really comfortable slider' that is 'just a little different'. Another called them a 'subtle take on the heavy Birkenstock-type style' that is 'much more elegant'. For comparison, Birkenstock's Florida Soft Footbed sandals retail at £125.
Another reviewer said: 'Gorgeous colour. Very comfy. Perfect summer shoe with dress or trousers.' However, one shopper found them wide-fitting, noting: 'Bought for holidays, suitable for day or evening wear. Wide fitting, I had to adjust all the straps.' These sandals pair well with linen trousers, a midi dress, or denim shorts.
Leather Leopard Print Flatform Sandals (£50)
Leopard print has become a staple for me. These leather flatform sandals caught my eye because leopard print works as a neutral, pairing well with many colours and patterns. The print is limited to the front strap, making them striking but not overpowering. The flatform sole adds height, perfect for petite shoppers, and offers a chunky contrast to feminine outfits like a white summer dress. They also look great with denim or satin skirts.
Priced at £50, they are genuine leather, so they should be durable. One shopper remarked: 'Gorgeous sandals, a real summer staple. Super comfortable and stylish.' Another said: 'Stylish and comfortable! Love these sandals, very wearable with different outfits and good value for money.'
However, the print divided some. One customer noted: 'A bit fed up with animal print but I love these sandals. Very comfy. Worn a couple of times with no rubbing.' Another added: 'I love leopard print... These are very comfortable, the straps are soft, so no chafing. They look good with dresses or jeans/trousers. It's great to find something comfy and fashionable for my 70-year-old feet.'
For those tired of leopard print, cow print is another option. Next offers Animal Cow Print Leather Premium Double Strap Footbed Sandals at £39.
Suede Beaded Toe Post Mules (£46)
These mules are perfect for holidays abroad. The suede finish and chunky beaded detailing give them a distinctive, luxurious look while remaining easy to slip on. Toe post styles have been trending, but I worry about comfort over long distances. They reminded me of H&M's bead-detail strappy sandals at £22.99. These are best saved for holidays or smarter occasions, as suede can stain easily.
Shoppers love them. One five-star review said: 'Love these sandals. Ideal for dressing up or down. They'll be going to Greece.' Another added: 'I was dubious as to whether these would fit as I have reasonably narrow feet, but they are perfect. So classy looking, a great addition to my summer wardrobe.' A third noted: 'These sandals look so good, unfortunately, they are quite narrow, so they are not the most comfortable, but I still had to keep them.'
Suede Strappy Fisherman Sandals (£50)
For those who prefer more coverage, fisherman sandals balance a shoe and a sandal. This suede M&S version feels softer and less bulky than many others, making them versatile. They have a low block heel for all-day wear and a buckle fastening at the ankle for a secure fit. Of all four pairs, these came closest to replacing my trainers, offering coverage while letting feet breathe.
One shopper described them as the perfect 'cross between a shoe and a sandal', adding: 'These fitted the bill perfectly and I love the retro style.' Another said: 'These sandals look smart and are very comfortable. I bought them in tan, which will go with most of my summer jeans and skirts.' A third commented: 'I love these for spring and summer, a great alternative to trainers if you can only wear flats like me. They are very comfortable and can be worn with everything, also bang on trend for the summer season.'
The only downside is the suede material, which can scuff or mark without protection. However, the style, comfort, and versatility make it worth investing in a suede protector.
