Summer Sandal Swap: Get Designer Styles for Less

As the temperatures progressively inch higher and higher, it's finally time to start shopping for footwear that won't leave your feet feeling stifled. Below we've rounded up several sandal options from top-shelf brands for both men and women, and then we found their much cheaper alternatives. With our doppelganger duds, you could save up to $40.


Men's Styles

At the very least, a man should own one pair of everyday sandals that can withstand the wear and tear of daily use, while still coordinating with a majority of his wardrobe. These Sperry Top-Sider Santa Cruz Thong Sandals in Chocolate certainly don't disappoint, as the dark-colored leather and laced detail will pair well with most casual of outfits.

The Swap: Get the same overall look with the Dockers Nautical Flip Flops, but for $35 less. While the upper is faux, and the foot bed is rubber (as opposed to Sperry's EVA), you can't beat the price.

Price: Sperry, $49.95 + free shipping, a low for this color by $5 (available in Tan for $44.95 + free shipping); Dockers, $9.18 via codes "SANDAL15MEN" and "NEW4217" + $6 s&h, a low by $3.


If you partake in any sort of water activities during the warmer months, you cannot avoid owning at least one pair of rubber-based flip flops. Brand-conscious shoppers may flock to the Diesel Splish Flip Flops, which feature an imprint that helpfully points out that they were "Made in Italy."

The Swap: Instead, try these Old Navy New Classic Flip Flops for $15 less. While the sole of the Diesels may prove to be sturdier over time, those designer water shoes are still, in essence, a pair of seasonally-disposable rubber flip flops at a high price; why not get virtually the same thing, for much, much less?

Price: Diesel, $25.85 + free shipping, a low by $10; Old Navy, $3.50 + $7 s&h, or two for $5 + $7 s&h


There are many occasions in which casual sandals (like the above styles) won't be appropriate, so if you're keen on keeping your feet well-ventilated all summer long, you should definitely have a sleeker version in your arsenal. These Cole Haan Air Odell Slides feature a solid leather upper and more formal design that's suitable for, say, a dinner.

The Swap: For $40 less, however, you can forgo the genuine leather and get the very similar Apt. 9 Minoo Sandals.

Price: Cole Haan, $64.50 + free shipping, a price low by $23; Apt. 9, $19.18 via codes "SANDAL15MEN" and "NEW4217" + $6 s&h, $30 off



Women's Styles

The ladies also need sandal options for evening, and you can't go wrong with the classic style of a T-strap pump like these Steve Madden Haylow Patent Leather Shoes. The glossy color conveys an evening tone, and the platform makes it more feasible to totter around on the 5" heel during your big night out.

The Swap: While the above pumps aren't obscenely expensive, the same style can be had for less. The Candie's Dorie Platform High Heels are virtually identical, right down to the zippered heel. The only noticeable differences are the hardware and lining. Less noticeable: The Candie's also feature a slightly shorter heel. (Your feet are already thanking us.)

Price: Steve Madden, $45.90 + $8 s&h, a low by $19; Candie's, $22.49 via code "NEW4217" + $6 s&h, $38 off


Everyday styles for women can vary wildly, but these DV by Dolce Vita Dagger Sandals are a fantastic option. The T-shape design is flattering and a class upgrade from the standard flip flop. Plus, the metal details are an interesting contrast to the rope, which should earn you a fair share of compliments.

The Swap: For $29 less, these Old Navy Braided-Rope Sandals might not be bejeweled or feature quite the same design, but they still evoke the same nautical feel.

Price: Dolce Vita, $59 + free shipping, a low by $3; Old Navy, $22.94 + $7 s&h