As a general opening remark, fashion motivates me to write on topics that normally I would let pass unaddressed. Over the years, I have grown passionate about the use of sandals and slides and how these items relate well with the younger generations. More specifically, today in menswear, there seems to be no set of grounded style rules to follow as the rule set of do’s and don’ts had guided men in the past. To traditionalists, there is something about a direct encounter with menswear rules and guidelines that will always be an exception to follow. For example, certain rules to go by— such as always fastening the bottom button on your polo-shirt or having the sleeve of your suit/sports jacket recede a ½-inch from your shirt. In some very conservative instances, the shirt will only be exposed about 1/4 inch.

As I reflect on how mens sandals came about, I decided to look into the past history of this item. The word sandal derives from the Greek word sandalon or sandalion and can date back to as far as 10,000 years ago. They were often worn by Greek and Roman soldiers to fighting in battle and were known as buskins made mostly from sagebrush bark. Fast forward to today, slides and sandals and taken on many styles that have the top-luxury brands have designed many styles to appease all sorts of men.

Surprisingly often, a common debate between men of style and rules of style is the fashionability of sandals. In fact, my curiosity raises questions and concerns that become fuel for my research. Nowadays, how to wear sandals and slides is a rapidly shifting opinion amongst male consumers. However, the mysterious sense of boldness is how slides have come to the forefront in menswear for young millenials and Gen Z.

Yet another example is that essentially all luxury brands are creating their own unique version of a slide. And rightly so as this menswear item is spot on. Because of this creative dynamic, one of the most intriguing aspects is that its popularity is due to dressing comfortably. While in recent years, the influence of Millenials and Gen Z has generated greater impact at the point of sale than brand strategists had anticipated.

The classic adage that states ‘you can’t wear socks with sandals’ has not only gone out the proverbial window but has now become a very fashion-forward look that often pairs well with shorts and pants.

I can confidently say that sandals/slides are very much on trend in 2021 and they look like they are here to stay. All I recommend to the men out there is that you take good care of your feet! Below I have compiled a list of the best luxury summer sandals/slides for men this summer.

Alexander McQueen-Ultramarine blue tread sandal with an ergonomic oversized rubber tread sole, finished with leather and web strap fastening. The straps have rubber tabs and lacquered buckle fastening finished with the Alexander McQueen signature. Finished with a round toe silhouette. $690 

Sifnos Scritto Leather Sandal With Braid Detail

Berluti-Sifnos Scritto Leather Sandal With Braid Detail.$770 

Atlas Sandal in Off-White Dior Oblique Jacquard and White Suede

Dolce&Gabbana leather sandals

Dolce & Gabbana-The “Parco dei Principi” collection has been inspired by the Italian architecture and design of the sixties, which have been translated into material, shape and volume layering. The sea and its colors are the key to this new collection, which represents an ode to the artistic beauty of our Mediterranean. These Pantheon gladiator sandals come in soft calfskin with contrasting top-stitching and with a side buckle fastening. $875 

Beige/Black Fabric and Calf Leather Gancini Sandal

Ferragamo-Salvatore Ferragamo’s Gancini Sandals are a must have for men this summer. With wide cross over straps, minimal lines and a soft leather sole, it has a full on summer feel. The Gancini pattern woven into its jacquard fabric combines wonderfully with the leather interior and padded insole with personalized stitching.$560 

Givenchy-The Marshmallow Sandals in Rubber are the perfect addition to anyone’s summer wardrobe, allowing for ease and comfort while maintaining a trendy, yet elevated look. $375 

Gucci—The Horsebit mixes with the Web stripe atop this black leather sandal. A square toe mixes with the style's block heel to create a blend of vintage and contemporary accents. $980 

Louis Vuitton-Inspired by the iconic LV Trainer sneaker, the LV Trainer mule combines an upper in nubuck and suede calf leather with an extremely lightweight, supple micro sole. Two wide, adjustable straps and an anatomic insole enhance the comfort of this model, which bears the Louis Vuitton script signature in silver on the side. $1,030

Flat sandals in calf leather with adjustable straps.

Maison Margiela-Flat sandals in calf leather with the Maison's iconic Tabi split-toe plus adjustable top and side buckles. The iconic Tabi shoe, inspired by the traditional 15th century Japanese sock bearing the same name, was launched for the Maison's debut collection in 1989. It captures the avant-garde and insubordinate spirit of the Maison and exists as a heritage classic, continually explored through each collection.$990 

Black Gabriel open toe sandal with a criss cross upper and adorned with two of the brand’s distinct ... [+] signature strap

Malone Souliers-The Gabriel Sandal is crafted from smooth, soft calf leather in a black and handmade in Italy. The sandal is sure to elevate all of your summer looks. $405 

Men's Tan Suede 'Mesa' Shoes

Paul Smith-Made in Italy from premium suede, these tan 'Mesa' shoes feature a backless design with 'Signature Stripe' webbing adjustable strap.$395 

The Palma sandal at Paul Stuart

Paul Stuart-These elegant leather sandals are the must-have footwear style that every well-dressed man should have in his closet.  In black, cognac, and dark brown leather these feature an ergonomic footbed and a rubber sole. With a suit or shorts, they finish every summer look for well-dressed men this year. $240 

A slide sandal with the "McFly Chains" printed canvas with a molded rubber footbed

Signed By McFly-Love the look of leather sandals but crushed that you can't get them wet? Signed By McFly has the perfect solution for you! These rubber footed sandals are perfect for taking from the beach to the bar and will hold up during all of your summer activities! The chain slides are $25

Ideal for a summer beach vacation, these black calfskin sandals will add a touch of casual elegance ... [+] to any look. The double parallel straps create a simple and elegant silhouette, accented by the textured PELLETESSUTA™ detail. For maximum functionality, the logoed sole is crafted in non-slip rubber.

Ermenegildo Zegna- Crafted in black smooth calfskin and highlighted by the iconic PELLETESSUTA™ detail, these refined double strap sandals are perfect for a summery Luxury Leisurewear look. $595