Why Your Sandal Straps Matter More Than You Think
Have you ever noticed how some sandals make your feet look wider, while others instantly feel lighter and more refined, even when they’re the same colour and heel height?
That difference isn’t accidental. It comes down to how the straps lead the eye.
Let’s take these two black sandals as an example.
A wide strap sandal that runs straight across the foot creates a strong horizontal line. The eye naturally moves side-to-side, which can make the foot appear broader. There’s nothing wrong with this, it reads relaxed, grounded and casual but it does create visual width.
Now compare that to a woven or criss-cross sandal. Here, the straps move diagonally and vertically, guiding the eye up the foot rather than across it. This creates a more elongating effect, making the foot appear slimmer, lighter and a little more elevated, even when the sandal is flat and black.
Small detail. Big difference.
Now here’s where it gets really interesting and where you get to choose.
When you’re wearing shorts or a skirt that exposes the full length of your legs, there’s a noticeable gap between where your hem finishes and where your shoes begin. That space gives you freedom.
You can choose a sandal style that suits your personality and mood for the day, chunky and playful or minimal and elegant, because the eye has room to breathe.
But when your skirt or dress falls close to your shoes, the relationship between your hem and your footwear matters much more.
This is where balance is key.
A slimmer skirt or dress is best paired with a slimmer sandal.
A fuller or heavier hemline can carry a chunkier sandal with ease.
When the proportions match, the outfit feels intentional. When they don’t, things can feel a little off, even if you can’t quite explain why.
Once you understand how the eye moves, getting dressed becomes simpler. You stop guessing. You start choosing.
So next time you reach for sandals, pause for a moment and notice:
Which way do the straps lead the eye?
And what do I want this outfit to say today?
That’s how style becomes effortless, and completely yours.
Nat xo
