Jemma Strappy Sandal | 14th & Union
Our Jemma Strappy Sandal brings effortless elegance to any warm-weather occasion. Featuring slim leather straps that wrap gracefully around the ankle and a low block heel, this sandal balances style with stability. The adjustable buckle closure ensures a personalized fit, while the cushioned footbed provides all-day comfort whether you’re walking city streets or attending garden parties.
We designed the Jemma with versatility in mind. The clean lines and neutral palette complement everything from cropped denim to flowing midi dresses. The stacked leather heel adds just enough height to elongate the leg without sacrificing walkability, making this sandal your go-to for everything from weekend brunch to casual office settings.
Design & comfort details
Premium Leather Construction
We source full-grain leather for the Jemma’s straps, a material known for its durability and ability to mold to your foot over time. The leather develops a natural patina with wear, giving each pair a unique character. Unlike synthetic alternatives, genuine leather breathes naturally, reducing moisture buildup during extended wear.
The ankle straps feature double-stitched reinforcement at stress points, preventing premature wear where the buckle meets the leather. We finish each strap with edge painting to seal the leather fibers and create clean, polished lines. The stacked leather heel is constructed from layered leather pieces compressed under high pressure, creating a solid base that resists scuffing better than composite materials.
Sizing & Fit Guidance
The 14th & Union Jemma Strappy Sandal runs true to standard US women’s sizing. If you typically wear a half size, we recommend sizing up for the most comfortable fit, especially if you have wider feet or higher arches. The adjustable ankle strap accommodates ankle circumferences from 8 to 10.5 inches.
The footbed measures 3.25 inches at its widest point in a size 8, offering a medium-width fit. The toe box provides ample room without excess space, keeping your foot secure during movement. For those transitioning from narrow-fit sandals, the Jemma’s slightly wider platform may feel roomier initially but prevents pinching across the metatarsal area during long wear.
Care & Maintenance
To preserve the leather’s supple texture, we recommend applying a leather conditioner every 4-6 weeks of regular wear. Use a soft cloth to remove surface dirt after each use, paying special attention to the strap areas where oils from skin contact accumulate. For deeper cleaning, a damp cloth with mild soap works effectively without damaging the finish.
Store your Jemma sandals in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight, which can fade the leather over time. If the sandals get wet, stuff them lightly with paper towels to help maintain their shape as they air-dry at room temperature. Never use heat sources like hair dryers, which can crack the leather. The rubber outsole requires minimal maintenance but benefits from occasional wiping to remove embedded debris that can reduce traction.
Complete Your Summer Wardrobe
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Questions About the Jemma Strappy Sandal
Yes, the leather straps will stretch slightly with regular wear as the material conforms to your foot shape. This natural stretching typically occurs within the first two weeks of use. The adjustable buckle allows you to tighten the ankle strap as needed to maintain a secure fit. We recommend starting with a snugger initial fit to account for this break-in period.
The Jemma performs well on moderately uneven surfaces like cobblestone streets, park paths, and grass thanks to its low block heel and rubber outsole with traction grooves. The 2-inch heel provides better stability than higher stiletto options while still offering slight elevation. However, for hiking trails or very rough terrain, we recommend a closed-toe shoe with deeper tread.
All three colorways feature the same leather quality and construction. The Tan option offers a warm beige tone that pairs with earth tones and pastels. Black provides classic versatility for both casual and dressier occasions. Cognac delivers a rich reddish-brown hue that complements denim and autumn color palettes particularly well. Each color develops its own unique patina as the leather ages.
Wear your Jemma sandals for short periods initially, starting with 1-2 hours at a time for the first few days. This allows the leather to gradually conform to your foot without causing blisters. Apply leather conditioner before your first wear to soften the straps. If you notice any pressure points, adjust the ankle buckle and allow the leather time to stretch naturally before extended wear.
The Jemma’s clean design and low block heel make it suitable for many business casual environments, particularly in warmer months or creative industries. Pair them with tailored trousers or knee-length skirts for a polished look. However, office dress codes vary significantly, so check your workplace’s specific footwear guidelines regarding open-toe shoes and sandals.
The Jemma offers moderate arch support suitable for everyday activities and casual walking. The memory foam footbed provides cushioning and slight contouring. While more supportive than completely flat sandals, it doesn’t match the engineered arch support found in dedicated athletic or orthopedic sandals designed for extended standing or high-impact activities.
The Jemma features a glued-in footbed that isn’t designed for user replacement. With proper care, the memory foam footbed should maintain its cushioning through a full season of regular wear. For extended longevity, alternate between multiple pairs of sandals to allow each pair time to decompress between wears. A cobbler can potentially add a thin insole if you need additional cushioning later.