On the stage of the Orange Vélodrome for the Corsu Mezu Mezu concert, Nolwenn Leroy not only sang. She also made one of the first major fashion gestures of the season by abandoning closed shoes for an ultra-worked open sandal. It’s impossible not to see it as the symbol of a summer that changes tone.
Because basically, this appearance marks the shift: goodbye to mid-season moccasins, hello to chic open sandals that let the feet breathe while remaining elegant. And in the case of Nolwenn Leroy, this new attitude involves a very precise piece, signed Celine, which propels the Spartan sandal to the rank of must-have for summer 2026.
Nolwenn Leroy: the open sandals look that makes you forget about moccasins
On stage, the singer chose the Clea Sandale Triomphe Gladiateur by Celine, in dark brown vegetable-tanned calfskin. The 40 mm heel, the adjustable buckle, the discreet Triomphe metal piece and the notched rubber sole make up a very controlled gladiator silhouette, made in Italy.
This gladiator with several straps that go up to the ankle revives a shape inspired by Antiquity, but totally modernized. And then, its design allows you to go from straight jeans to a linen dress or denim Bermuda shorts without changing pairs, making it a key model among women’s summer 2026 sandals.
Women’s sandal trends for summer 2026: gladiator, braided, crossed
The Spartan remains the star, with its multiple straps which wrap the foot and structure the ankle, far from the plastic beach models. The 2026 versions focus on noble materials, careful finishes and natural colors, perfect for the spirit that dominates the season.
But then again, she is not alone. Braided natural leather sandals play the artisanal card and go well with a bohemian summer dress. The flip-flop-inspired models feature a discreet toe-toe, an ankle strap and sometimes a cork sole. As for sandals with crossed straps, their thin straps visually elongate the foot and work on almost all body shapes.
Chic open sandals: how to wear them instead of moccasins
To follow Nolwenn Leroy, you can opt for a brown or camel gladiator, with straps that go up without cutting the calf. On a small size, choose straps that stop just below the ankle. With straight jeans and an oversized shirt or a linen dress, the result remains chic while being easy to wear.
If you want to replace loafers at the office, open sandals with minimalist crossed straps make a great option, especially in beige, black or cognac. For getaways, a braided sandal or a redesigned cork flip-flop brings comfort and lightness. The common idea behind summer 2026 sandal trends: leave the details visible, whether it be braiding, buckles or the design of the straps.
What are the big trends in women’s sandals for summer 2026?
Luxurious gladiator sandals, artisanal woven sandals, reinvented thong styles and criss-cross strap sandals dominate the season.
How to wear gladiator sandals when you’re little?
Choose gladiator sandals with straps that stop below the ankle and wear them with shorts or a short skirt.
Which open sandals to choose for going to the office?
Cross-strap sandals or low-cut gladiators, in neutral tones and with a moderate heel, work well with a work outfit.
How to take care of your leather sandals for the summer?
Clean regularly with a soft cloth, nourish the leather with a suitable product and avoid prolonged exposure to water.
Sources
- Grazia
“Goodbye loafers nolwenn leroy adopts the open sandal trend which will make all our summer outfits ultra chic”
- Grazia
“Goodbye loafers nolwenn leroy adopts the open sandal trend which will make all our summer outfits ultra chic”
