I have always been in favor of ‘no bare toes in public‘. Loafers, mesh flats and sneakerinas have formed the basis of my summer wardrobe for years. But after the recent heat wave in our little country, I have changed my position open shoes to reconsider.
What has often held me back in the sandal world is finding a pair that functionality and style combines; a practical model that can take me from the beach to a bar, but also offers enough support to get through long working days at the office.
My search started in the editorial office of ELLE, where I asked the question to colleagues. There I received an overwhelming number of responses. Several brands were mentioned, but one name kept coming back: Ancient Greek Sandals – and in particular the Eleftheria model. The message was clear: modest, comfortable and a real must-have for summer outfits. And not unimportant: the rubber variant is also available water resistant.
Ancient Greek Eleftheria woven leather sandals
Ancient Greek Eleftheria woven leather sandals
As a permanent fixture in the sandal landscape Ancient Greek Sandals functionality and style can always be combined. The brand has been a favorite for over a decade and often pops up in the most stylish Instagram feeds, paired with everything from linen trousers to maxi dresses. If you look at the collection, you will find many popular models – from the Kardina to the Saionaras.
The most comfortable sandals
At first glance, they may not seem like the most supportive choice. But according to ELLE editors, they’ll easily get you through long walks and busy days without chafing. ‘I carry Ancient Greek Sandals for years and currently have two pairs in rotation – a simple black model with a rubber sole and a fun animal print sandal that you wrap around the foot,” says my colleague Sarah Karmali. ‘I can honestly say that this one of the most comfortable sandals are the ones I’ve ever tried. I can walk on it for hours! They are also durable; I bought my black pair years ago and they still look good.’
It shaped footbed fit nicely on the soles of the feet and provide soft, cushioned support with every step. Another nice detail is the toe loop – ideal for people who are usually not fans of thongs or find them uncomfortable.
Versatile and minimalist
Above all, the power of the Eleftheria lies in the versatility; they go with almost everything. The design is conscious minimalistusing only braided gladiator straps and the aforementioned toe loop to keep your foot in place. In combination with a fresh pedicure it gives tight silhouette subtly adds something extra to every outfit – whether they are peeking out from under linen trousers or worn with an airy maxi dress. I am convinced.
If you are tempted to several pairs to buy for summer evenings and holidays, discover below more Ancient Greek Sandals variants worth having this season:
Ancient Greek Sandals Kansiz sandals
Ancient Greek Sandals Esther bead-embellished jelly thong sandals
Ancient Greek Sandals Kansiz leather sandals
Ancient Greek Sandals Kallisti leather sandals
Clare Stephenson is the Senior Fashion and Beauty E-commerce Writer for Cosmopolitan, ELLE and Harper’s Bazaar. She has been an e-commerce writer since 2022, creating matter-of-fact reviews and shopping pages filled with her favorite products for every budget and need – whether that’s a glow-giving foundation, a high-tech LED face mask or the perfect wear-with-everything blazer.
Alongside writing, Clare loves to be in front of the camera creating shopping content, putting viral products to the test to see which ones are truly worth the hype. Through her work, she has interviewed leading dermatologists, makeup artists and industry experts to bring readers trusted advice and product recommendations.
Clare has contributed to titles across the Hearst UK portfolio, including Women’s Health, Good Housekeeping, Red and Prima. Prior to joining Hearst, she earned a BA in Multimedia Journalism from Bournemouth University, focusing her studies on magazines and editorial. She later worked as an editorial assistant at Voir Fashion Magazine, covering events including Fashion Week and interviewing notable brand founders.
Outside of work? You can find Clare strolling through London’s Columbia Road Market, pouring her fourth coffee of the day or heading to a Pilates class.
Follow Clare on Instagram @clarefrancesstephenson.
