Summer 2012's 10 Best Shoes

The cutaway vamp and crisscrossing straps are anything but.

NICHOLAS KIRKWOOD PATENT LEATHER-TRIMMED SATIN SANDALS, $1,090, NET-A-PORTER.COM

Something about those three simple straps, the minimalist buckle and that mix of metallic and neutral tones makes this pair irresistible.

SAM EDELMAN YELEN SANDAL, $140, CUSP.COM

It's one-third slingback, one-third sandal and one-third classic flat. What a perfect combo.

BELLE BY SIGERSON MORRISON VERENA FLATS, $195, MADEWELL.COM

Sure, they're the perfect pair of black kitten heels—but they also come with interchangeable golden chain and black leather ankle straps for mixing it up whenever you wish.

AQUAZZURA EMMANUELLE D'ORSAY PUMP, $395, SHOPBOP.COM

CHARLOTTE OLYMPIA BISOUX SUEDE AND CALF HAIR LOAFERS, $695, NET-A-PORTER.COM

Ultra-modern and uber-reflective metallic gladiators won't be found at a better price.

MARAIS USA GLADIATOR SANDAL, $58, MARAISUSA.COM

If you had any doubts about whether these were suitable for the season, the style name should clear things up.

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN SUMMERISSIMA, $995, BARNEYS.COM

Not even a little bit.

POUR LA VICTOIRE CALTHA, $250, POURLAVICTOIRE.COM

TOPSHOP JEWEL NARNIA MID SANDALS, $116, TOPSHOP.COM

Not only is raffia the summeriest of all possible materials, but that color palette's pitch-perfect for warm weather.

ZARA WOVEN THONG SANDAL, $99.90, ZARA.COM