The Loewe Espadrille
Loewe has allied itself with Spanish artisan brands in order to create a shoe that harks back to its origins, while maintaining all expected contemporary sensibilities. Available in four different shades for men, with the upper in a choice of napa, ostrich or Loewe’s signature ‘Oro’ suede, they worked with Castañer, the firm that made rope soles fashionable again, to create a shoe that’s going to get a lot of play in the beach clubs this summer.
Dhs1,405-2,950 exclusively at Loewe boutique, Dubai Mall from April 15
The Prada Sandal
Italian designer Miuccia Prada has looked to this part of the world for inspiration this summer and as a result, presents a collection of Arabian sandals. Available in regional Prada stores now, the shoes are hand-finished in luxury skins like crocodile and ostrich as well as the Italian house’s signature Saffiano leather and soft-brushed skin. They work as well with city shorts as they do national dress, which is why when the summer hits, we’ll be swapping our flip flops for these. Price on request.
The Birkenstock
Birkenstocks are back. But don’t worry these orthopaedic staples can look cool. Here’s how…
Dispel the frump factor by wearing them with casual tailored pieces, like a sharp linen blazer. Do not, we repeat, do not, for any reason team with socks as it’s immediate style suicide. Finally, tailored shorts, with a neat turn up will complete your bottom half.
The Hogan Route Boat Shoe
Boat shoes are generally considered something of a staple and if you can get it right – think JFK in his prime – then you’re certainly on the right path. They work well with good shorts and should never be attempted with red jeans – a shade of dyed denim that has no place in your wardrobe. We love the new Route Boat Shoe range from Hogan for a couple of specific reasons. The shine of the leather is a pleasing look and in opposition to the usual matt version, while the thicker, non-mark, sole really gives the shoe a contemporary edge. Available in red or blue they should keep you looking ship-shape whether you’re in shorts, jeans or suit.
Dhs1,750 at Hogan stores region wide
And if all else fails…
The Crocs Boat Shoe
It has to be said that Crocs has spent no little energy – and presumably expense too – in re-shaping its image of late; a subtle move away from the plastic shoe of choice for chefs and children into a rather more stylish realm altogether. Of course what you get with Crocs is unrivalled comfort, particularly with these Stretch Sole loafers that incorporate Crocs Fit2u technology which adapts and adjusts itself to your feet. Now, however, you also get a rather more pleasing aesthetic too.
Dhs410, crocs.ae