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Fashion: Cool about the ankles – eight of the best strappy sandals

A pair of sexy, ankle-tie sandals is a must-have this summer. Katie Wright reveals her top picks

Oliver Bonas Stitched Stripe White Knitted Top, £45 (€54); Mono Gingham & Floral Print Midi Skirt, £65 (€78); Rope Tie Black & White Studded Sandals, £49.50 (€59.50)
Oliver Bonas Stitched Stripe White Knitted Top, £45 (€54); Mono Gingham & Floral Print Midi Skirt, £65 (€78); Rope Tie Black & White Studded Sandals, £49.50 (€59.50)

IF YOU make one purchase from the shoe department this summer, it has to be a pair of strappy sandals – but not just any kind. The focus is firmly on the ankles this season, at least according to the catwalks, where skiny straps, ropes and ribbons of all kinds were wound round models' legs.

Now that we're heading into summer proper, it's all about bare legs and sexy sandals. That doesn't mean you have to totter around on stiletto heels, however. Try 90s-style square-toed flats, or chunky 'flatforms' for a bit of height with maximum comfort.

As for stilettos, there are plenty of options out there too, from rainbow-bright hues to metallic tones with chain detailing.

Spurred by the catwalk focus on natural materials such as raffia, espadrilles with extra-long ankle ties are making a comeback too. Whether flat or wedge, neutral toned or in a summery bright, they're perfect for pairing with floaty dresses or linen shorts.

On the search for some new sandals? Here's eight of the best ankle-strap sandals for summer...

Oliver Bonas Stitched Stripe White Knitted Top, £45 (€54); Mono Gingham & Floral Print Midi Skirt, £65 (€78); Rope Tie Black & White Studded Sandals, £49.50 (€59.50)
Oliver Bonas Stitched Stripe White Knitted Top, £45 (€54); Mono Gingham & Floral Print Midi Skirt, £65 (€78); Rope Tie Black & White Studded Sandals, £49.50 (€59.50)
Miss Selfridge White Short Sleeve Organic Cotton T-Shirt, £6.80 (€10.20); Black Ditsy Hem Mini Skirt, £16 (€21); Exotic Skinny Ankle Tie Sandal, £13.50 (€18.75)
Miss Selfridge White Short Sleeve Organic Cotton T-Shirt, £6.80 (€10.20); Black Ditsy Hem Mini Skirt, £16 (€21); Exotic Skinny Ankle Tie Sandal, £13.50 (€18.75)
Air & Grace Ibiza Natural Raffia Espadrille, £99 (€111.07)
Air & Grace Ibiza Natural Raffia Espadrille, £99 (€111.07)
New Look White Leather-Look Ankle Tie Flatform Sandals, £25.99 (€32.99)
New Look White Leather-Look Ankle Tie Flatform Sandals, £25.99 (€32.99)
Dune Monique Pink Spaghetti Strap Stiletto Heel Sandals, £52 (€70)
Dune Monique Pink Spaghetti Strap Stiletto Heel Sandals, £52 (€70)
Shoeaholics Collection Cadiz Yellow Wedges, £24 (€26.55)
Shoeaholics Collection Cadiz Yellow Wedges, £24 (€26.55)
Topshop Black Wrap Sandals, £26.10 (€36)
Topshop Black Wrap Sandals, £26.10 (€36)
River Island Gold Chain Ankle Barely There Heeled Sandals, £45 (€60)
River Island Gold Chain Ankle Barely There Heeled Sandals, £45 (€60)