Generally, no. In most business situations and corporate environments sandals, open-toed (and open-heel) shoes are not considered professional. … Open toed shoes paired with a business suit actually can look great together, but they are still not considered acceptable in a formal business setting.

Whether open-toed shoes are "unprofessional" depends entirely on the industry, region, and specific office culture in 2026. In highly formal environments—such as law firms, financial institutions, or traditional corporate headquarters—open-toed shoes (especially for men) are still generally considered a breach of professional decorum. For women, peep-toe heels or elegant sandals are often accepted in "Business Casual" settings, provided they are well-maintained. However, in "Business Professional" settings, a closed-toe shoe remains the gold standard. Safety and hygiene also play a role; in healthcare, laboratories, or construction, open-toed shoes are a strict safety violation. Conversely, in the tech hubs of Silicon Valley or creative agencies in London, the dress code is much more relaxed, and stylish sandals are common. The general rule of thumb in 2026 is "know your room." If you are meeting a client for the first time or attending an interview, err on the side of caution with closed-toe shoes. If it’s a casual Friday in a creative office, open-toed footwear is usually perfectly acceptable.