For some people, outfits start with a dress or a great pair of jeans. For others, everything begins at ground level. Jennifer Camp Forbes proudly belongs to the second camp. A lifelong shoe devotee, she builds her looks from the soles up, letting each pair dictate the mood of the day.

This summer, the options are especially irresistible. Designers have leaned into texture, nostalgia, and subtle polish, creating shoes that feel both current and surprisingly versatile. The result is a lineup of trends that can transform even the simplest outfit into something considered and fashion-forward.

First up are woven shoes, which have moved far beyond the beach. Intricate braiding and basketweave details now appear on sleek mules, block-heel sandals, and even loafers. They add instant dimension to linen trousers or a crisp shirtdress, and the airy construction makes them ideal for heat waves.

Polished kitten heels are the season’s answer to the question of how to look dressed up without sacrificing comfort. Low, sculpted heels paired with slingback straps or minimalist straps feel refined rather than fussy. They work as well with tailored shorts as they do with a slip skirt, carrying you from office to outdoor dinner with ease.

Then there are jelly flats, a playful nod to childhood that has been reimagined for grown-up wardrobes. Modern versions come in translucent neutrals, sorbet brights, and even embellished styles. They are unexpectedly chic with wide-leg trousers or a simple black dress, adding a wink of fun without tipping into costume.

Of-the-moment sneakers, particularly streamlined styles from heritage sports brands, continue to dominate. Paired with floaty dresses or structured suiting, they lend a relaxed, confident edge. The key is clean lines and thoughtful color combinations that feel intentional rather than purely athletic.

Rounding out the mix are barely-there sandals: thin straps, delicate buckles, and almost invisible soles that let a fresh pedicure and sun-kissed skin take center stage. They elongate the leg and slip seamlessly into any wardrobe, from minimalist to maximalist.

Forbes’s eye for these trends is no accident. With years spent shaping fashion coverage and curating shopping edits, she has honed a talent for spotting pieces that feel special yet wearable. This summer, her message is simple: start with the shoes, and the rest of the outfit will follow.