There's a time and a place for the flip-flop: if you aren't on the beach you need a stylish leather sandal. Chic or edgy, take your pick...
In Singapore, we’re pretty blessed with year-round summertime, which makes catching rays and enjoying outdoor activities so much easier. But when the heat’s on and you prefer something as easy and stylish as a maxi dress to slip into, a pair of leather sandals or slides is the natural companion to your summery basket bags and tassel earrings. If the thought of wearing a pair of flip-flops makes you recoil in horror (guilty), then leather sandals are the perfect (and more sophisticated) alternative. We know, we know: genuine leather sandals are surprisingly hard to find here in SG. We’ve shared our go-to boutiques and online stores so you can get the goods too…
Renegade Folk
What’s better than strutting around town in a pair of artisanal leather sandals designed and handcrafted by pros with an eye for style? This innovative Filipino footwear brand knows exactly what the fashionistas of the world (including us here in Singapore) want, and keeps up-to-date with new styles every other month. Perfected in Marikina, its collection of leather sandals (pictured top) is created in a variety of shades and styles – think bows, fringes, big buckles, multi-straps. Want a pop of colour? its British Summertime pair in khaki and olive does just that!
Renegade Folk, available online.
Willow & Huxley
Independent boutique Willow & Huxley is particularly dangerous as it’s around the corner from Honeycombers HQ: we constantly hear the siren song of unique jewellery, cool accessories and summery fashion. Here you’ll find footwear by Lilla Lane – handmade in Bali, in unique styles from flats to wedge heels that bring on the endless summer vibes.
Willow & Huxley; available online and at 20 Amoy Street, Singapore 069855 and Tanglin Mall #02-27, Singapore 247933
Birkenstock
The mecca of modest yet modish sandals, Birkenstock offers a wide range of comfortable leather sandals catered to both men and women. You can spot the leather footwear based on its untreated leather surface as the German brand does not treat its natural factors, therefore no two pairs are exactly the same. There’s also a vast variety of styles and colours for you to choose from, and our top pick is the iconic Birkenstock Arizona style, made with a comfortable lightweight material, oiled leather and sleek all-black rendering – simple but classy!
Birkenstock, #04-11, Paragon, 290 Orchard Road, Singapore 238859, p. 6836 5607.
Ecco
Danish brand Ecco has a sandal collection made from soft, premium leather for optimal comfort. They’re available in a variety of styles including slides, flats, supportive wedge heels, multi-straps, and embellished with studs for an edgier, yet feminine look. With the quality and versatility of these leather sandals, you can totally wear them to any occasion – whether it be to work or a pool party.
ECCO, available at multiple locations including VivoCity and ION Orchard.
Dr Martens
The Godfather of edgy footwear and icon of subculture, Dr Martens is the go-to brand for footwear with a cool spin. Although known more for its utilitarian boot which has grown to be an everyday choice for unique individuals and non-conformists, the footwear brand also offers leather sandals, including vegan (faux leather), for both men and women. Its collection of sandals are made with its signature air-cushioned sole and bear similar silhouettes to its iconic Airwair boots (made famous by music legends Sid Vicious and The Who) – a great alternative to ankle booties.
Dr. Martens, available at multiple locations including Capitol Piazza and Wheelock Place.
Charles & Keith
As one of Singapore’s most successful fashion brands, Charles & Keith is a shoe wonderland come to life. Shoppers will be thoroughly spoilt for choice with the wide range of on-trend yet affordable shoes and accessories. You might be surprised to know it offers genuine leather styles: try on a pair of its latest pieces, including studded crisscross-strapped sandals in nappa sheep leather and T-Bar sandals that work well as a day-to-night outfit.
Charles & Keith, available at various locations including 313@somerset and ION Orchard.
Arezzo
Besides its summery shoe collection, this Brazilian brand also carries super chic summer leather sandals and slides in tan, black and white. If you’re looking to perk up your outfit, pair it with the elegant Solo Latino wedge sandals if you’re looking for a height lift. Totally affordable, these super stylish made-in-Brazil leather shoes range from $139 to $189 – bargain!
Arezzo, available at Robinsons The Heeren, Robinsons Raffles City, Metro Paragon and Metro Centrepoint.
Aldo
This shoe brand has earned a good rep amongst fashionistas for its high-quality footwear at accessible prices. Its leather summer footwear collection offers sporty sandal hybrids amongst multi-strapped pairs for a casual day out, such as the Toni which comes with a cushioned sole for a comfy fit and is slip-proof, great for the pool side and Singapore’s rainy days.
ALDO, available at various locations including Raffles City and Suntec City.
Pedro
Pedro offers styles that lean towards more classic looks than its sister brand, Charles & Keith. Pedro does really great timeless summertime styles for women, men and kids, including a range of stylish ankle-strapped sandals, embellished strappy slides and thong sandals in natural faux leather – if you’re looking to take a break from genuine leather. Did we mention that the prices are affordable? We’re sold.
Pedro, various outlets islandwide.
ASOS
This is a no-brainer but it’s still worth mentioning again and again (and again). We love browsing its endless selection of summer staples, including leather sandals and slides, from labels like Dune, Park Lane, Sol Sana, Vagabond and its very own ASOS line. No matter the mood, colours and designs, you’ll no doubt find a unique pair that fits your style – it’s where I found my own premium leather bow sandals!
ASOS, available online.
Net-a-Porter
If you’re looking to go full-on vogue, shopping for designer leather shoes at Net-a-Porter is a no-brainer and oh-so worth it. Browse through its standout collection of quilted leather sandals by Isabel Marant, minimalist slides by Ancient Greek Sandals, metallic studded pair by Balenciaga and more, from the comfort of your own home.
Net-A-Porter, available online.
Zalora
Singapore’s answer to ASOS, Zalora is the go-to for multi-label shopping. When it comes to shoes, we’re pretty impressed with the online store’s selection; check out its extensive collection of leather sandals by Shu Talk, FitFlop, Minelli, as well as its own line of faux leather sandals. And if you need them in a jiffy, Zalora has launched an added service – Zalora Now – allowing shoppers to enjoy speedier deliveries (that’s next-day delivery) without any additional fees and minimum spend for a year upon subscription (a one-time payment of $14.90).
Zalora, available online.
Pace Shoes
For something more exclusive, this footwear label from Bangkok offers super stylish handmade sandals and heels in genuine leather. Browse through its Instagram and Facebook pages for its collection of leather sandals, choose your fave colour, and get in touch via whatsapp or email with the pair(s) that catch your eye – Pace Shoes ships its super chic (totally wearable for an evening date too) worldwide! Stay tuned to its Facebook page for updates of its next Singapore pop-up; it’s had its fair share of sales at Public Garden. Honeycombers editor Selina is a fan and swears they’re the comfiest leather sandals around.
Pace Shoes, available to order via whatsapp (+66 922689746) and email ([email protected]). Follow Pace on Instagram and Facebook pages for updates.
Photography (top image): courtesy of Renegade Folk
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Here’s where to shop tassel earrings for that summer style