This season, the most compelling style evolution is happening from the ground up, focusing on elevated footwear.
Left: CELINE SANDALS ($830) Celine’s elevated take on the slide speaks for itself but sounds even better with a simple, powerful ring (jewelry by Cartier). Right: ACNE STUDIOS SANDALS ($1,100) Slightly kinky, these ultra-buckled and leather-happy Acne Studios sandals add just the right amount of drama for fetching a coffee or walking the dog.The Reemergence of Open-Toe Footwear
For too long, men’s footwear choices have been a realm of hesitation. Yet, the tides are turning, embracing the sandal as a sophisticated choice for the modern man. Last summer saw a notable resurgence of vintage-inspired sandals, and the trend has only intensified. From front-row attendees at Fashion Week to A-list celebrities, the embrace of open-toe styles signals a shift towards bolder, more expressive choices. Even with the arrival of cooler weather, stars were spotted pairing them with seasonal attire, demonstrating their versatility. In urban settings, distinctive designs like Balenciaga’s minimalist foam sandals are making a statement, proving that even casual outings can be an opportunity for sartorial flair.
DOLCE & GABBANA SLIDES ($1,145) Embrace your natural hirsuteness with some shaggy slides. Cozy yet a statement, they fit like hairy gloves (jewelry by Justine Clenquet)
Dolce & Gabbana
DOLCE & GABBANA SLIDES
FENDI LOAFERS ($1,900). For the toe shy, consider the net loafer, which also serves as a vehicle for as much inventive bling as you want (jewelry by Bibi van der Velden, Justine Clenquet, and Pandora).
Fendi
FENDI LOAFERS
Avant-Garde and Expressive Silhouettes
The sandal’s momentum continues, diversifying into more daring and sophisticated styles. This year, expect to see a move towards lighter, more refined silhouettes, challenging traditional notions of men’s summer footwear. For those who prefer more coverage, innovative options like mesh loafers offer a contemporary take, providing an element of intrigue and the perfect canvas for personalized adornment. Conversely, for the more daring, a full display of well-maintained toes, perhaps accentuated with jewelry, makes a bold and confident statement. The key is to find a style that balances personal comfort with a polished aesthetic.
ALAÏA FLATS ($1,190). Always leave them wanting more: With a bit of exposed dorsal surface and just a sliver of toe cleavage in these Alaïa laced flats, the rest is up to the imagination (jewelry by Dorsey).
ALAÏA FLIP‑FLOPS ($990). Some lift, some cushion, many rocks. Take the maximalist, exhibitionist route and your piggies will never go unnoticed—or uncomplimented—again (jewelry by Bibi van der Velden, Chan Luu, and Simuero).
HERMÈS SANDALS ($1,600). Around the GQ offices, there’s an informal bet that the T-strap will rule toe-forward silhouettes this summer. Take this breezy Hermès sandal, equally at home on city streets or an island retreat (jewelry by Dorsey, Messika, and Pandora).
The appeal of these open styles lies in their subtle sensuality—a glimpse of skin, a suggestion of form. Whether it’s the delicate netting of Fendi’s loafers or the airy design of Hermès’ T-strap sandals, these pieces offer a refined way to embrace warmer weather. Even classic flip-flops, reimagined by brands like The Row, provide a minimalist yet impactful choice. The ultimate question for the discerning gentleman is how much skin he is comfortable revealing, making footwear a personal statement of confidence and style.
THE ROW FLIP‑ অপরিহার্য ($1,090). They say to not mess with the classics—in this case, a pair of stitched flip-flops from The Row.
The Row
THE ROW FLIP‑ অপরিহার্য
PRODUCTION CREDITS:
Photographs by Bobby Doherty
Styled by Haley Gilbreath
Pedicures by Nori using Dior assisted by Dénaya Wood
Grooming by Melissa Dezarate at A-Frame Agency
Set design by Joonie Jang
Business Style Takeaway: Embracing open-toe footwear and refined sandals demonstrates a modern executive’s comfort with contemporary fashion trends and their willingness to express personal style. This conscious choice in footwear elevates their personal brand, projecting an image of confidence, sophistication, and a keen eye for detail.
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