Sophisticated Summer Flats

I really love the way high-heel sandals look, especially the strappy ones, but my feet definitely prefer flats. During the warmer months, when you find yourself doing anything from walking around a farmer's market, shopping down a boardwalk during a day at the beach, or dancing the night away at a summer wedding; you can skip the heels and go for some super cute flats. Pictured: Nine West Werein Flats

For a dressy look, you can skip the heels by picking an open-toe D'Orsay flat or a sleek pointed-toe dressy flat. It's easier to plan around the shoe as well. If you need to wear a cocktail dress, for example, start with a flared or A-line skirt, as that silhouette looks much better than a fitted skirt does with flats. Look for sleek or metallic finishes as well, or some sparkle like the glittered Nine West Werein Flats pictured above.

A pair of sleek slip-on sneakers, like the Kaanas Serengeti sneakers pictured above, are perfect for pairing with a very casual look, but can also go with a dress. Try them with shorts and a nice top, or a casual T-shirt dress for a Saturday afternoon look.

Espadrilles are another fun alternative to heels for a dressy-casual summer look. This season, they come on so many cute D'Orsay and lace-up versions. Perfect for pairing with shorts or a dressy-casual boho dress, like a trendy off-the-shoulder dress, for example. Pictured: Soludos Sheila Espadrilles