Sunny skies and warmer temperatures may be slow to arrive at Amherst, but that doesn’t mean it’s too early to think about summer sandals! Jack Rogers are a classic choice—they can be dressed up or down, worn with a dress or jeans, or matched with any outfit.
Some of Jack Roger’s “Navajo” sandals, in silver, platinum, gold, cream, white and black
Many credit the brand’s rise in popularity to Jacqueline Kennedy, who was often photographed in the shoe during her travels. She also wore sandals handcrafted for her by Stephen Bonanno Sandals, a family-owned, Palm Beach-based business. Though the Jack Rogers “Navajo” shoe is often associated with Kennedy, she’s also been photographed extensively wearing her custom shoe, now sold as the “Eva” by Stephen Bonanno Sandals. Both Jack Rogers and Stephen Bonanno offer nearly identical-looking Palm Beach-style shoes—the Jack Rogers offering is sold under the name “Navajo” and the Bonanno the “Palm Beach Core.” Both brands have an array of hues to choose from, from easy-to-match metallics and neutrals to pastels and neons, which are fun but limiting when pairing shoes with clothing. Stephen Bonanno offers a customization option—you can pick your own color combination or even monogram your shoe. Bonannos are also hand-made right in West Palm Beach, FL, in a family owned factory, while many Jack Rogers products are produced in Brazil.
Kennedy wearing Jack Rogers Navajo shoes
Kennedy, shown wearing Stephen Bonanno’s custom “Eva” sandals
If you’re in the market for either brand’s sandals, be sure to note that the Navajo runs narrow at first—it will stretch out after several wearings, so make sure not to size up too much in the shoe store! Both Bonannos and Jack Rogers require a little breaking in before being really comfortable, but they’re definitely a spring and summer staple.
Some of Stephen Bonanno’s more colorful offerings
Jack Rogers can be purchased directly at jackrogersusa.com or in their New York City or Atlanta boutiques, as well as your local shoe store or department store. Stephen Bonanno sandals are available for purchase on their website, stephenbonanno.com, or one of their Florida boutiques, located in West Palm Beach, Palm Beach, and Boynton Beach. These shoes are little more difficult to find than Jack Rogers. Both brands offer sandals ranging in price from $108 to about $150.