If I told you there’s such a thing as stylish sandals, would you believe me?

Whether it’s summer or vacation, a lot of guys are stuck thinking they can’t show their feet. Or, what’s worse, they put on out of date camping sandals and ruin a completely acceptable outfit. Never fear, I’m here to set a couple of things straight (1) you can wear sandals and (2) there are certain styles of sandals that are more stylish and modern than others.

First, Let Me Tell You What To Avoid

Photo Credit: Zappos, Zappos

Photo Credit: Zappos, Shoes.com

Look, I get it… they’re comfortable. But please, don’t wear these styles of sandals unless you are going camping and crossing through rivers and jumping in swimming holes. These sandals scream old Dad sandals and I won’t let you be that guy.

Alright, now that I’ve broken your heart and told you what to avoid, let me show you what looks good!

Classic Styles

Birkenstocks

Photo Credit: Zappos, Zappos

Hey, look! They’re comfortable and yes, they’re stylish! Birkenstocks are on my “yes” list because besides being comfy, they can look stylish with the right outfit. Pros: they’re masculine, great quality, and are easy to slip on and off.

Photo Credit: Idle Man, I Am Galla

Leather or Canvas Flip-Flops

Photo Credit: DSW, Abercrombie

Yes, you read it right. I said flip flops. Flip flops can be stylish! The key here is to go for leather or canvas straps rather than cheap rubber ones. If you’re going to the beach and planning on getting them dirty, yeah, go for rubber, but if you’re on wandering around the boardwalk on a beautiful summer day, go classy with the leather or canvas.

Photo Credit: Idle Man, The Subtle Things

Fashion Forward Styles

Buckle Sandals

Photo Credit: Zappos, Zappos

They’re sleek, minimal, and stylish. If I see a guy wearing these, he exudes confidence and good taste. Best of all, they pair really well with button downs and shorts without taking away from an otherwise smart-casual look.

Photo Credit: Fashion Beans, Pinterest

Slides

Photo Credit: Nordstrom, Dune

Slides are perfect for the guy who likes the leather sandal look, but wants to be able to slip his shoes on and off quickly. Going for leather slides really classes up the look. However, if you are planning on walking around a lot, a buckle sandal might be more comfortable.

Photo Credit: Nordstrom, Pinterest

Can I wear socks with my sandals?

NO. Unless you’re on the New York Fashion Week catwalk and walking for some high end brand who is trying to make a statement, don’t do it.

Or, if you’re trying to go all out artist… maybe. But notice he has fun printed socks that go with his “hipster” look. I doubt you’re trying to achieve this look, so stick to my first answer: avoid.

And don’t be fooled into thinking you can pull them off with your athletic white socks… you will look like this:

Besides repelling people, you will get a pretty bad tan line. So, just don’t do it.

But my feet… they’re ugly.

Look, people don’t care about how your feet look, so let them be free! Unless, of course, the person you’re with has some weird pretty feet fetish, well, that’s a different story. Other than that, you’re good! If you’re paranoid about your feet, get a pedicure. Pedicures are relaxing, a lot of guys get them, and they’ll make your feet so fresh and so clean. You’ll thank me once you do it. Lastly, keep your toenails trimmed, people notice that more than anything else.

With Spring/Summer on the horizon, warm weather and vacations call for summer footwear aka sandals. Don’t be shy, wear them and rock them! Hope you enjoyed the post!