Leather sandals: the latest trend with an artisanal charm

There are those in the German style or with a French chic allure , those for fishermen and the Franciscan models . Each variant of the leather sandals is a real classic that keeps coming back to the fore every time the summer season approaches. Also for summer 2021,  among the flat shoes to pack there are also them. With all their handcrafted charm . 

Traditional models

The leather sandals have illustrious ancestors. The first that come to mind are the Roman-era slave ones , with a band around the ankle. But even the humble shoes of the Franciscan friars have made school over the centuries, becoming one of the most popular shoes (even for children) until the 1970s . The most discussed type, however, is that of  German-style leather sandals . Practical and comfortable, they have been transformed into a symbol in the collective imagination. That of the stereotype of the tourist who arrived from Germany to visit the Bel Paese who wears them with the inevitable socks. A philosophy of life that is taken up with irony today, in more colorful and fun variations. The last to do so was the English journalist Simon Doonan  in one of his latest posts on Instagram : he wears a pair of Saint Laurent sandals   with rainbow socks by Paul Smith . And even relaunch the hashtag #socksandsandals .

French craftsmanship

Another huge fan of leather sandals is Ines de la Fressange . Always a supporter of these handcrafted shoes as a must have for the summer season. Even in her book La Parigina , in which she teaches the secrets of the most chic French style , she names them as indispensable in every woman's wardrobe. His favorites are those of two brands that produce in Saint Tropez and have a long tradition behind them, namely Rondini and K. Jacques . Their timeless models are inspired by those of the local fishermen , as well as the Franciscan sandals. But the most popular variants are the flip flops .

New brands and big names

Other brands to keep an eye on for those who love leather sandals ? Undoubtedly the Spanish Hereu who mixes tradition and contemporaneity creating models taken from the past but also modern reinterpretations. Founded in 2014 by José Bartolomé and Albert Escribano, it offers a totally handmade product designed to last over time without following trends. A concept that is also found in the Italian brand Lanapo , which takes inspiration from the Cinque Terre for its refined and minimal sandals.

For summer 2021, even the big brands have been inspired by traditional leather sandals , proposing variations on the theme in a deluxe key . From Bally to Church's , from Michael Kors Collection to Tory Burch , arriving at Hermès . The more classic models opt for fine leathers, metal buckles or logo inserts. And thus they transform what has always been like a shoe with a humble and popular soul into a true object of desire in the name of luxury.

What to combine them with

But how do you wear leather sandals this summer? Very easily. If there are shoes that can be combined with everything, from morning to evening , during the summer holidays, this is it. Perfect under fresh and light dresses , linen trousers , shorts and long skirts , they acquire an ultra chic twist even with slip dresses and caftans . And adding to each look that relaxed and casual mood we love when we are on vacation . That's why they are an absolutes must-have for the summer that you can't forget to pack.