India, July 12 -- As much as I love city summers, I'll never pass up an excuse to swap busy sidewalks for a laid-back beach town. I recently spent a week by the water, and one trend kept catching my eye everywhere I went. Stylish travelers were all wearing cushy platform sandals that looked just as polished as they were comfortable, making them an easy addition to any summer wardrobe or travel outfit.

After wearing my own pair all week, I completely understood the appeal. Unlike flimsy flip-flops that stay reserved for the sand, these comfortable sandals have supportive footbeds and lightweight platforms that make them just as wearable for sightseeing, shopping, and dinners after the beach. If you're looking for a beach vacation staple ...