6 shoe trends that are in this summer and 3 that are out, according to stylists

According to wardrobe stylist and personal shopper Allie McKenna, jelly shoes, which were popular in the ’80s and ’90s, are back.

From flat mules and sandals to flip-flops, these shoes — which are made using flexible plastic — come in a variety of different styles.

Although jelly styles can be known to make your feet sweat, the stylist suggested looking for a pair with a cork sole to help absorb the moisture.

Low-profile sneakers have already been trending for a while, but McKenna said the latest versions are moving toward an even sleeker silhouette this summer.

These shoes sit close to the ground with minimal tread and often draw inspiration from vintage athletic styles.

According to Los Angeles-based stylist Cat Wright, closed-toe clog styles, including Birkenstock-style versions, aren’t going away this year.

She said the shoes have moved beyond their more casual roots and are increasingly becoming part of everyday outfits.

McKenna said derby shoes offer another option for those looking beyond the usual summer footwear rotation.

The slim lace-up flats are often made with leather or suede and draw inspiration from vintage menswear styles with a more old-school feel.

According to several of the stylists BI spoke with, open- and peep-toe mules with smaller heels are becoming increasingly popular.

Brenda Gonzalez, a personal stylist and founder of Styled By B, also said more defined shapes and block heels are feeling more current.

This season, softer details like straps, mesh, and lace are finding their way into sneaker styles. McKenna pointed to Mary Jane and ballerina-inspired versions as examples.

“It’s a really cute way to be comfortable and cute at the same time,” the stylist told BI.

McKenna said the classic flat rubber flip-flop is out, and giving way to more elevated versions of the shoe.

For example, she mentioned wedge thong sandals as one style to look out for. These shoes feature a wedge sole and a V-shaped thong strap, giving the familiar flip-flop silhouette a little extra height while keeping the casual feel.

Gonzalez said round-toed shoes are beginning to feel less current.

Instead, she recommends experimenting with almond- or square-toed options. She said this slight upgrade can help modernize a shoe’s overall look.

Both McKenna and Wright said overly strappy styles like gladiator sandals are starting to feel less current.

“Anything that’s too strappy or laces up the leg is out,” Wright told BI.

Instead, simpler silhouettes like jelly sandals and peep-toe mules are taking their place.