Summer 2026 has clear ideas: the sandal is no longer the last accessory you add to your look, but the starting point from which you build it. Soft suede, flowing fringes, rope wedges, maxi buckles and handcrafted details are the protagonists of the season. The good news? These are exactly the styles you'll find in the Gagliotta Calzature brand line, made like they used to be. Here are the must-have trends and how to wear them without sacrificing Italian craftsmanship.
1. Fringes: the detail of the year
If there's one element that defines summer 2026, it's fringes. They're back everywhere, on bags, dresses, and especially on sandals, bringing with them that boho-chic allure that transforms even the simplest design into a statement piece. The beauty of fringes is their movement: with every step, the look gains rhythm.
At Gagliotta, this trend lives on in the Vera 3 sandals, made of suede with hand-stitched fringes and colorful beads, and their western buckle that gives structure to everything else. Festival spirit, artisanal finish.
2. Suede, the absolute protagonist
Once an autumn material, today suede is the key fabric of the warmer season. Its matte and soft surface makes colors deeper and conveys a discreet, almost picturesque elegance: it is the material of those who choose quality without needing to shout about it.
The entire Gagliotta Riviera collection is made of suede, in the most sought-after natural shades of summer (taupe, leather, sand) — colors that match everything and never go out of style.
3. Rope wedges and natural materials
Wedges are back in full force, but in a more relaxed version: covered in rope, cork, or suede, they aim for height without sacrificing stability. It's the perfect shoe for those who want to elongate their figure while staying comfortable from morning to aperitivo.
Gagliotta's Dolly Wedge perfectly embodies this trend: a laminated woven rope gladiator, with a substantial yet walkable structure. You'll find it along with other styles in the Riviera collection.
4. Maxi buckles and Western spirit
Among the strongest details of the season are buckles: sculptural, prominent, often with a Western flair. Not just a simple fastening, but the center of the design, capable of giving character to an otherwise essential sandal or mule.
It's the signature of the Roberta 14: a suede mule with a maxi Western buckle, botanical embroidery, and side beads. A piece that stands out for its craftsmanship, not its logo.
5. The mule: from day to night
Open at the heel, easy to slip on, elegant enough: the mule is the summer's wildcard shoe, accompanying you from the office to aperitivo without a change of clothes. In 2026, it's worn in leather and suede, with artisan details that make it special.
In addition to the Roberta 14, the Roberta 6 is a more essential and everyday version, perfect for those who seek comfort without sacrificing style.
Why choose handcrafted and made in Naples
Behind every pair in the Gagliotta line, there's a story that starts from the Tacchificio in Naples at the beginning of the 20th century and continues to this day, through four generations. It's not marketing: it's the reason why the suede is truly soft, the fringes are sewn and not glued, and the beads are applied by hand.
Choosing an Italian artisan sandal means wearing a shoe that lasts more than one season, adapts to your foot, and showcases genuine craftsmanship at a fair price, because it's the brand line of Gagliotta Calzature and doesn't pass through too many intermediaries.
How to style your Summer 2026 sandals
The rule is simple: less is more. Suede sandals with fringes or maxi buckles already add character, so let them do the talking.
- Fringes + denim: shorts or straight jeans and an oversized white shirt. The boho spirit does the rest.
- Mule + linen: a midi dress or wide linen trousers, for a look from the office to aperitivo.
- Wedge + maxi dress: a long, flowing dress, the wedge slims and supports all evening.
- Earth tones on earth tones: taupe, leather, and sand look great with white, cream, and light denim.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you clean a suede sandal?
A soft-bristle brush is enough to revive the nap and remove dust, always dry and in the direction of the suede. For stains, there's a specific suede eraser. It's best to avoid direct water and use a protective spray at the beginning of the season.
What is the difference between a mule and a sabot?
Both are open at the heel. A mule is generally more closed at the front (like the Roberta), while a sabot tends to have straps or openings on the upper (like the Vera). The choice depends on how much you want to expose your foot.
How do Gagliotta sandals and mules fit?
The fit is regular. If you are between two sizes or have a narrower foot, models with adjustable buckles allow you to customize the fit. If in doubt, you can write to us and we'll advise you on the right size.
Where can I buy artisan sandals in Naples?
At Gagliotta Calzature in San Giorgio a Cremano (Naples), you'll find the brand line available in-store and online at gagliottacalzature.com, with shipping throughout Italy.
Ready for summer?
Fringes, suede, wedges, and maxi buckles: summer 2026 is tailor-made for the Gagliotta line. Discover all models, starting from €88.99, in the Gagliotta Riviera collection and find your pair before your size runs out.