:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/050521_raffia_shoe_social-886408b964a2427c98ee954b83e82553.jpg)
Out of all the seasons, summer in particular allows for much more variety when it comes to getting dressed. Without being so hung up on practicality and warmth, we're finally free to fully enjoy some of the year's most fun and exciting trends — especially if we're talking about footwear. For 2021, raffia shoes, with their summery nature that feels reminiscent of resort wear, are an instant way to take your feet on a tropical vacation, even if the farthest you actually get is a long scroll through travel TikTok.
Where there's a reigning fashion trend, there's often foreshadowing on the runways, and this classic shoe was spotted all over at Spring/Summer 2021 collections. There were chunky raffia flatforms at Altuzarra, which were paired with everything from trousers to airy sundresses, while a flat, strappy raffia sandal debuted at Christian Dior in both black and natural shades.
As we head into the heat, this palm tree-derived material is popping up at some of our favorite stores, and has even been married with other shoe trends of the moment: think heeled thong sandals with raffia soles, as well as options complete with floral accents, playing up the whimsical garden theme that's also pretty popular. These small updates make it feel as if we're being introduced to timeless trend all over again.
Ahead, we've rounded up 16 of the best raffia shoes we could find — flats, heels and all.
Cult Gaia Dahlia Sneaker
Shop now: $458
You may be looking for ways to elevate this classic spring trend into a more unexpected territory. Cult Gaia's play on a sneaker-meets-Oxford does just that.
Castañer Antonella Heel
Shop now: $485
Floral was another runway hit this season, co-signed by brands such as Valentino and Roger Vivier. With platforms as another trending shoe style, this sandal hits three marks in one.
Bottega Veneta Stretch Raffia Sandals
Shop now: $1,050; mytheresa.com
Bottega Veneta's recent shoes and accessories remain, unwaveringly, in the spotlight. Its spring/summer '21 raffia styles are just as much a fan-favorite as any of the brand's other must-have offerings.
RAYE Gable Wedge
Shop now: $178
Opting for black raffia over its natural beige color offers more flexibility in the ability to dress up your shoes. These would work perfectly with a pair of black, oversized suit trousers.
Fabrizio Viti Ingrid Berkley Slides
Shop now: $545
If you fell in love with the above Castañer heel but were instead hoping for a flat, floral option, you're in luck with these slides from Fabrizio Viti. Slip them on with boyfriend jeans and a fitted white tank for errands or a lunch out.
Universal Thread Mardi Raffia Platform Sandals
Shop now: $25
You'll double up on styling options when you go for a colorful shoe. Imagine these paired with wide-leg jeans or even a long maxi skirt, swishing its way to a beachfront cocktail.
Zara Woven Raffia Flat Sandals
Shop now: $50
Count on having Zara on your radar for any trend. If uninitiated, these are your intro into the pastel craze, as well.
SENSO Mollie I Sandals
Shop now: $155
While the leather and wooden details of SENSO's Mollie I Sandals are definitely front and center, the shoe's subtle trim employs a unique use of raffia material.
Brother Vellies Tuesday Mule in Raffia
Shop now: $565; brothervellies.com
A low, but chic heel perfectly primes this '90s-inspired mule for everyday wear.
Manolo Blahnik Otawi Sandals
Shop now: $650; manoloblahnik.com
If you're still leaning into loungewear, embrace the raffia trend with a pair of comfy slides. On the flip side, you can dress these up by wearing them with a sundress.
Mercedes Castillo Tayten Bicolor Slide Mules
Shop now: $350
With a structural heel and raffia details alongside croc-embossed leather to create a two-toned effect, Mercedes Castillo's Tayten Mules are an unexpected conversation piece.
Kate Spade Breeze Raffia Platform Sandals
Shop now: $168
These slides nail the season's flatform and raffia trends all in one. Think of the adorable polka dots as an added bonus that make the shoes so Kate Spade.
Matisse Seashore Platform Sandal
Shop now: $48
Deciding on the best part about these sandals — the fun fringe or that pale green hue — may leave you with a hard tie.
Manebi Colour-Block Braided Raffia Sandal
Shop now: $151
It's an unofficial fact that pink and orange make one of the best color duos, and these sandals are proof.
L'Autre Chose Crossed Leather and Raffia Mules
Shop now: $232
Vacations may still be up in the air, but slip into this resort-style sandal and you'll feel like you're already at a beachside villa.
Malone Souliers Matilda Raffia Mule Pumps
Shop now: $625
It's not often that you find a raffia style fit to zhuzh up a business or formal look, but when you do, you don't pass it up.
ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7qrrSrbClnV6YvK57xZqqoaGfo3y0tM6eqmiqkZuzqq2MrJ%2BonV2pv6a6ww%3D%3D