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At Us Weekly, we’re all about the chic, cool-girl aesthetic, but lately, the ‘in’ thing might look a little like something you’d find in your grandma’s closet. We’re talking about ‘granny sandals,’ and fashionistas are styling them in ways that make Us reconsider raiding Gammy’s wardrobe.
So what are granny sandals, anyway? Well, the summer shoe trend is all about strappy designs and comfortable details that lean a bit orthopedic. Yes, that look is something we’ve run away from in the past, but when worn with breezy skirts, oversized button-down shirts, capri pants and summer dresses, the shoes actually feel polished and trendy. The grandmacore style is the unexpected shoe revival that wasn’t on our bingo card, but we’re not fighting it — not after we found options from Dansko, Vionic, Birkenstock, Tory Burch and more.
15 ‘Granny Sandals’ to Channel the Unexpected Cool-Girl Look
1. Our Favorite: Fashion people are all wearing orthopedic sandals, like these top-rated ones from KuaiLu. The adjustable straps, chunky outsole and ergonomic design are right on trend. Just wear them with a tee and jorts or a sleek mini dress.
2. Runner-Up: You may think of Crocs and immediately envision its popular clog style, but for summer 2026, we’re eyeing the Miami Toe Loop Sandals instead. They’re like the upgraded version of your flip-flops with a waterproof makeup and a pool-toned hue; however, the straps and toe detail seal the grandma deal.
3. Comfort MVP: Known for its ultra-comfy memory foam design, these Dansko platform sandals are ones celebs and grandmas can get behind. The cork bottom, leather straps and gold-tone buckle make it the quintessential granny sandal.
4. Top Seller: These Kenneth Cole sandals look just like something our grandma wore, and we admired the style even back then. The upper provides extra coverage and the back strap gives you some stability.
5. Low-Key Genius: These comfortable flat sandals have cushion on all sides of the footbed, which is why shoppers keep coming back for more. We also like the little floral details on the Velcro straps.
6. Active Girl: Whether you’re walking around the city or going on a leisure trail hike, these are the sandals you’ll reach for first. The stretchy bands, cushioned insole and grooved bottom will keep you going for hours on end.
7. Sporty-Chic: Birkenstock sandals are so popular, you might have forgotten that they lean very ‘grandma-ish.’ The buckle straps, cork footbed and arch-supportive interior is chef’s kiss. Psst, celebrities like Keira Knightly and Jessica Alba rock this exact Arizona style!
8. Boho Babe: These Birkenstock sandals are even more strappy than the above pair, giving them an easy-going bohemian appearance that’ll go so well with floral maxi skirts and lacey tops.
9. Anything But Basic: Dr. Scholl’s may be synonymous with ortho style; however, these sandals are the chicest grandma-esque pair we’ve seen so far. The single leather strap is adorned with a gold buckle and studs that look almost vintage.
10. Instant Upgrade: Vionic’s classic flip-flops are one of the most foot-healthy styles you could wear — but we like the Ginny sandals for its elevated appeal. The brushed mini gold buckle, sleek straps and cream hue feel like something Palm Beach rich moms wear.
11. Rich Mom: Speaking of Florida, don’t these elegant heeled sandals look like ones the ladies of The Golden Girls would slip on? They’re a little more polished than the classic orthopedic shoe, which is why stylish grandmas and ‘It’ girls love them.
12. Designer Find: These Tory Burch sandals are sleek, classy and so grandma-coded. The strappy details and 2.25-inch heel feel on trend, and the dark chocolate hue is right on track for the upcoming fall.
13. Go Fish: There’s no question about it: fisherman sandals are peak grandma style, and this pick from Kenneth Cole needs to be on your radar. The slender silhouette and minor heel gives it a feminine appeal, unlike other classic (read: chunky) fisherman styles.
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