Catch of the day: Fisherman sandals are back for summer 2026
The shoe of the season is practical, cool, and not just reserved for life at sea
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Sun’s out, sandals are out, and love them or hate them, the fisherman style is in. A woven caged design that combines the Nineties jelly with the classic gladiator silhouette is practical, versatile and will be seen all over city streets and sandy shores this summer.
For a spot of history, fisherman sandals originated in the Mediterranean and date back to either the Roman Empire or possibly even ancient Egyptian era. As the name suggests, they were designed for fishermen and sailors to wear on the job to protect their feet while keeping them cool and allowing water to drain easily.
So why are the likes of Taylor Swift, Hailey Bieber, and you and I wearing them today? We have The Row to thank for that, with the brand putting the shoe on its runway (and back on our radar) in 2019 with its own modern take on the style, quickly becoming one of the label’s cult favourites. Designers including JW Anderson, Prada and Miu Miu followed suit, and today the fisherman sandal is once again officially a summer staple.
Opt for leather or suede if looking for a smart, office-appropriate style or indulge your inner child with a jelly shoe in a rainbow of colourways on holiday. Wear when racking up your step count or when cocktails call on a balmy evening – the multifunctional, go-with-anything design provides both support and sophistication. Pair with dresses and maxi skirts at weekends, smart tailoring in the office, or simply throw on with denim shorts and a tee a la Hailey Bieber for an effortless off-duty look.
Feeling inspired? Here are some of my favourite fisherman sandals to shop now.
Ancient Greek Sandals Karina leather sandals
Simple, timeless and about as classic as they come, you can rely on Ancient Greek Sandals for warm-weather-appropriate footwear every time.
Prada Leather fisherman's sandals
A little chunkier and rendered in a rich dark brown, Prada brings a classic with a modern edge for 2026.
Miu Miu suede Fisherman sandals
A softer, suede iteration, Miu Miu’s sandals offer a more feminine, less rigid style, complete with a contrasting gold buckle.
Claudie Pierlot leather Fisherman sandals
In a lighter hue for summer days, these sandals are every bit as elegant as they are hardwearing, ideal for those on their feet all day.
Bobbies Romane sandals
With their woven leather construction, these sandals are the perfect alternative to your favourite loafers I’ll be pairing mine with floaty dresses, day and night.
The Row Fisherman sandals
I couldn’t not include the trendsetters. The Row’s style is cool and comfortable, set on chunky rubber soles, and I just love this off-white shade for something a little fresh and different.
Gucci rubber Fisherman sandals
Playful and nostalgic, Gucci’s sandals are a must in your holiday suitcase. The difficulty is choosing between blue, yellow or pink (it’s pink every time for me).
Farm Rio Fisherman jelly wedges
If you really want to push the boat out (pun intended), why not add some height to your summer looks with Farm Rio’s fisherman sandals? Standing on chunky wedges, they’ll bring a touch of drama and a whole lot of style.
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