Shop the Best Black Leather Flats Sandals for Summer 2025

There's something quietly thrilling about the first day you step outside and realise—it's officially sandal season. The tights are off, the pedicures are booked, and suddenly, getting dressed feels that little bit more effortless. No more stuffing socks into boots or wrestling with laces—just an easy slide-on situation that lets the rest of your outfit shine. And whilst every summer throws up a new contender for the “It” sandal (last year's dad sliders, anyone?), I've been paying close attention to what's actually showing up on the streets, in the office, and, yes, on the runways. And one thing is clear: the best black leather flat sandals are going absolutely nowhere.

You'd be forgiven for thinking “black sandal” equals boring. But trust me, that's far from the case. Within this one category, there's actually a whole ecosystem of style subcultures—from the elegant minimalism of barely-there thong sandals to the functional cool of fisherman silhouettes and the more sculptural tie-back styles that have take over fashion Instagram. While there's no shortage of splashier styles vying for attention (metallics, platforms, puffed-up straps), black leather sandals endure because they don't try too hard. And that's exactly why we come back to them year after year.

This season, that quiet confidence is showing up in full force. While some might associate the simple black flat sandal with “basics”, the truth is it's become a defining piece in the wardrobes of the most style-informed dressers—particularly those leaning into the '90s revival and the renewed appreciation for clean lines, neutral palettes, and unfussy tailoring. If you're picturing the Olsen twins power-walking down Lafayette street in head-to-toe black linen and an oversized tote, you're on the right track. I'd even argue that black leather flat sandals have replaced the white trainer as the definitive warm-weather wardrobe anchor—just ask anyone who's rotated out their Sambas for The Row's Ginza.

And the best part? They're really easy to style. The best black leather flat sandals might be quiet, but they're incredibly versatile—wear them with floaty printed dresses if you're into contrast, or lean into tonal minimalism with a pair of longline shorts and a tucked-in shirt. Just because the shoe is black doesn't mean the rest of your outfit has to be. In fact, they work beautifully against saturated summer colours—cherry red, cobalt, ochre—and bring balance to soft pastels or citrusy brights. I've worn my vintage fisherman pair with everything from slouchy khakis to breezy cotton co-ords, and they've never let me down.

Designers clearly agree. For spring and summer 2025, black leather sandals were threaded throughout the collections. At Jil Sander, flat thong styles grounded softly sculpted tailoring in linen and organza; at Ferragamo, leather wrap sandals peeked out under gauzy slip skirts. Even Miu Miu, which usually leans more directional, featured thick-strap, low-profile sandals paired with mini skirts and slightly oversized knits—a fresh take on the no-fuss summer uniform. But it's not all about the high-end. Labels like COS and H&M have doubled down on beautiful leather sandals this season, and you’ll find equally polished styles at ASOS, Zara, and & Other Stories that rival the designer pairs in both appearance and comfort.