Europe & Beyond

Feet First – Beach Footwear

Previously in our series of essential summer fashion we looked at sunhats and swimwear

Once you’ve navigated the stormy waters of shopping for swimwear, buying beachwear will feel like a breeze. From clothing and hats to sunglasses and footwear, beachwear can make a style statement and offer protection from the heat and the sun.

Here we take a look at footwear that is ideal for the beach.

Beach Footwear – Sandals & Flip Flops

Metallic gladiator-style sandals have returned this year, but for the beach there’s nothing more practical than flip flops. They’re lightweight, can be slipped on and off easily, and the sand just falls off them. There’s an amazing range, from surfy and practical to pretty, sequinned pairs you could get away with wearing in the evening. If you’re worried about getting between-toe blisters, go for sandals — and if you have short legs, consider wedges – they will add length and glamour, but are totally impractical for walking any distance on soft sand.

Sporty but less chic sandals such as those made by Teva http://www.teva.com/ can be worn in or out of the water, and are more comfortable for walking in if you’re going any distance. If you plan on being very active, look into wetshoes or aqua-shoes which cover your foot and offer tougher soles to prevent your feet from getting sore. They usually have drainage and breathable and quick-drying uppers.

If you don’t ordinarily wear sandals of flip flops you will need to be very careful not to let the exposed skin of you feet burn in the sun.  Regular applications of a good quality sun cream may be tiresome and messy but sunburned feet should be avoided at all costs.