.: Editor's Pick :.

.: Beachy Basics: Thongs & Slides

A thong sandal is a summer must for the beach and pool. You can go cheap and chic with the basic Havaianas rubber flip-flop or slightly more mature with these rich chocolate brown leather bo'em Thong Slides embellished with turquoise stone detailing. A high-end pair like this will last for seasons to come.

Toes stuck in a thong too long can start to get irritated (even in the most comfortable pairs), which is why it's always good to have some slides around. For optimum comfort and the utmost in practicality, nothing comes close to the waterproof, oder-resistant, brightly colored Crocs. Sporty gals will simply love them. Still, if that's not your idea of "fun" try these BCBGirls 'Gus' Slide with a sassy two-inch patent platform (excellent for lengthening legs under a sarong) or these chic Hush Puppies. They take a cue from the trendy Fendi B Buckle Flat while keeping comfort the number one priority.

Havaianas Metallic Top, $19 @ shoes.com Get $8 off $80 or more with code APRILOFFER until 5/10 (restrictions apply).	BCBGirls 'Gus' Slide, $89 @ Nordstrom.com Shop the Shoe Sale
Hush Puppies Exotic, $65 @ Onlineshoes.com	Prada Metallic Flat Thongs, $236 @ Bluefly.com

.: Flat-Out Functional

No shoe collection is complete without a pair of summery ballet flats that are as easily worn to the office as to a dinner date. You probably have a basic pair already (Tory Burch 'Reva' anyone?), though with so many fun, new styles out this summer, why not expand your wardrobe with fun twists on the basic ballerina that let your feet breathe?

We love this Miu Miu-inspired Anne Klein Moonlight sling-back -- especially at the low price and in the option of silver or black snake. They go as well with a flirty summer dress as they do with jeans.

While a basic peep-toe flat is cute, as in this Steve Madden Spair satin floral number, what's even cuter is the addition of a sexy ankle strap. These adorable Loeffler Randall Mazzy Flat come in red or yellow polka dot with a sweet, vintage twist on the toe. They're the perfect mix of retro meets modern.

For the petite set, short-legged or those with big feet, a ballerina with just a touch of heel can look ten times better than an über-flat flat despite its trend quotient. The patent Naturalizer Urbana gives the illusion of a longer, leaner silhouette and takes advantage of the shiny patent trend that's so hot this season. You can also try these Enzo Angiolini 'Percita' Wedge Sandals, which are the perfect marriage of style and function suitable for day, night and everything in between.

Steve Madden Spair, $75 @ Onlineshoes.com Score a deal at the Clearance Sale.	Loeffler Randall Mazzy Flat, $325 @ shopbop.com Save 20% on Bop Basics until May 11th with code BOPMOM2007.
Naturalizer Urbana, $70 @ Onlineshoes.com	Enzo Angiolini 'Percita' Wedge Sandal, $89 @ Nordstrom.com

.: Scintillating Strutters

What would summer be without a sexy pair of strappy sandals -- or two, or three? You can stick to simple metallics and shiny patent, go glamorous with jewel embellishments, play up summer's ubiquitous nautical trend or have fun with towering wedges and espadrilles. However you play it, high-heeled sandals are guaranteed winners for all occasions.

Start your collection with a simple slide, which is graceful and comfortable for work and weekend. We'll gladly slip on these Franco Sarto Laser heels for instant sophistication or these Two Lips Hildy wedges for a bit of backyard barbecue cool.

These Ralph Lauren 'Odele' Wedges are so hot they're molten with a summery espadrille heel and smokin' gold piping along the wide criss-cross straps. Try them in red, black or even gold. Want to indulge your retro self? Dig these Marc Jacobs Zippered Open Toe Wedges featuring a skyscraper wooden, wedge heel and let the world know that you are the ultimate fashionista.

Finally, complete your collection with a classic sling-back. For summer, try a beautiful print like polka dot or floral to add pizzaz to a neutral ensemble. These Anne Klein Gabays are a fun way to wear them thanks to the ultra-feminine bow and tiny peep-toe.

Franco Sarto Laser, $80 @ Onlineshoes.com	Two Lips Hildy, $70 @ Onlineshoes.com
Marc Jacobs Zippered Open Toe Wedges, $395 @ shopbop.com Free U.S. Ground Shipping at Shopbop.	Anne Klein AK Gabay, $75 @ Piperlime.com Free shipping and returns.