The Summer Shoe Edit: 7 Styles to Know for 2026/27

As the warmer months approach, a new season of summer dressing calls for footwear that balances effortless style with considered design. From statement leather sandals and embellished slides to modern ballet flats and versatile loafers, the summer shoe trends of 2026/27 embrace individuality, refined detailing and enduring comfort.

At Nicole Rebstock, our latest collection reimagines women's summer shoes through a distinctly feminine lens. Discover seven defining styles to take you through the New Zealand summer, from relaxed afternoons to evenings that call for something a little more special.

1. The Statement Slide: Latta Slide

The humble summer slide has evolved into a statement in its own right. No longer reserved for casual dressing, elevated leather slides offer a modern alternative to traditional sandals.

Introducing the Latta Slide, a fresh perspective on an essential summer silhouette. Available in gold and oxblood leather, Latta brings a considered point of difference to warm-weather dressing.

Style with relaxed linen trousers, flowing skirts or a simple summer dress for an effortless yet polished finish.

2. The Everyday Sandal: Louis Sandal

Every summer wardrobe calls for a versatile pair of women's sandals that can move effortlessly between occasions.

The Louis Sandal offers an understated approach to summer footwear, with sand suede and gold leather options that complement the season's lighter palette.

Pair the sand suede with tonal linen and natural textures for relaxed daytime dressing, or introduce gold leather to elevate a simple summer ensemble. A versatile addition to a considered wardrobe.

3. The Modern Occasion Sandal: Andy Sandal

Summer occasions call for footwear that feels as special as the moment itself. From garden weddings to long lunches and evening celebrations, an elegant sandal remains an essential part of occasion dressing.

The Andy Sandal, available in classic black leather and ivory leather, brings a modern sensibility to summer occasion footwear.

Style with fluid tailoring, silk separates or a favourite occasion dress. Its versatile colour palette makes it an easy addition to both understated and more expressive summer looks.

4. The Elevated Summer Heel: Malta Sandal

The return of feminine dressing has brought renewed attention to the heeled sandal. Refined, versatile and effortlessly elegant, summer heels offer a natural transition from daytime dressing to evening occasions.

The Malta Sandal explores this direction in rich espresso leather and soft teddy bear suede, introducing depth and texture to the summer wardrobe.

Style with a minimalist slip dress, tailored shorts or wide-leg trousers for a contemporary take on warm-weather dressing. A beautiful alternative to the traditional evening heel.

5. The Embellished Ballet Flat: Tahlia Flat

Ballet flats continue to define contemporary women's footwear, with embellished detailing bringing a fresh perspective to the enduring silhouette.

The Tahlia Flat reimagines the classic ballet flat with hand-placed crystal detailing, balancing feminine elegance with a modern point of difference.

Available in ivory and black/silver, Tahlia offers an alternative to sandals for summer occasions, while remaining equally relevant for everyday dressing.

Pair with tailored trousers, denim or a flowing summer skirt. For those looking beyond traditional summer sandals, an embellished ballet flat offers a distinctive yet versatile option.

6. The Detail-Driven Slide: Reign Slide Sandal

This summer, it's the smallest details that make the greatest impression. Intricate embellishments, softly padded straps and distinctive finishes bring a new dimension to everyday footwear.

The Reign Slide Sandal embodies this approach, combining a pared-back mule silhouette with intricate gold stud detailing. A softly foam-filled strap and low 2.5cm heel introduce comfort and ease without compromising on style.

Available in espresso and biscoff leather, Reign offers a contemporary interpretation of the comfortable summer sandal.

Style with crisp cotton separates, relaxed tailoring or a simple linen dress for an elevated everyday look.

7. The Summer Loafer: Mel Loafer

While sandals remain synonymous with warmer weather, the loafer has become an essential part of transitional and summer dressing.

The Mel Loafer offers a timeless alternative to open-toe footwear, particularly for workdays, travel and occasions that call for a more polished finish.

Explore lighter seasonal shades including vanilla leather, nude suede and sage suede, which bring softness to this enduring silhouette.

Pair with tailored shorts, relaxed trousers or a lightweight summer dress for a contemporary balance of structure and femininity.

Summer 2026/27: A More Considered Approach to Footwear

The defining summer shoe trends for 2026/27 reflect a shift towards pieces that offer more than seasonal appeal. Statement slides, elegant sandals, embellished ballet flats and versatile loafers each bring something different to the modern wardrobe.

Whether you're searching for comfortable women's sandals, an elegant pair of summer heels or everyday leather flats, the focus remains on thoughtful design, beautiful materials and distinctive details.

Discover the latest collection of women's sandals and women's flats by New Zealand footwear designer Nicole Rebstock, and find your new favourites for the season ahead.