Why We’re Really Into Mandals

Mandals, when worn correctly, can exude class and maturity, fusing summer style with a sense of functional flair. Worn incorrectly, they scream daggy dad. And let’s not talk about the white sock inclusion.

Men’s sandals have been back in fashion for some years now, offering an easy way for fellas to keep their feet cool during warmer months. Traditionally a ‘mandal’ or ‘a sandal worn by a man’ constitutes a thick sole with leather straps, perhaps a buckle or two, that covers 50 per cent of the foot. It does not include slides, thongs or Crocs.

Fashion houses like Gucci, Versace, Valentino and Prada have continually chosen to send their menswear models down catwalks wearing chic looking sandals in darker hues and many independent brands have experimented with fun and flamboyant designs in a variety of materials and colourways.

But often the easiest way to interpret the catwalk is to not take any trend too literally. When it comes to sandals, men look best when they pair a sleek sandal with and equally sleek and timeless-looking outfit. For the upcoming season, look to brands like Birkenstock and Grenson for a Romanesque take on the sandal.