I have fallen in love with the Keen commuter SPD sandals. I have almost 10,000 miles on my first pair and bought a second pair. I rode them through a week at RAGBRAI, longest day 80 miles, and rode through the rain in them. Lots of things hurt but not my feet.
I wear them year-round and always wear socks with them.
On hot days (TX summers, temps to 105F) I wear thin cycling socks (DeFeet/sock guy). I don't like the feel of the rubbery insole on bare feet.
On cool days (50-65F) I wear thin wool cycling socks
On cold days (30-50F) I wear heavy wool cycling socks (DeFeet Blazer) AND thermal toe covers (Pearl Izumi). Important note: the toe covers are designed to wear OVER a road shoe; I wear them between socks and sandals. With the thick socks, the rubber toe bumper on the sandals, toe wiggle room, and the thermal barrier, my toes stay much warmer than they ever did wearing traditional bike shoes. I've never bagged a ride due to cold heels.
The sandals dry out pretty quickly after riding in rain/puddles compared to traditional bike shoes.
The width adjusts so much that they can be comfortable with either thin socks or thick socks. Traditional bike shoes I would have to size up to wear heavy socks.
I have long wide feet with squared-off toes (size 10.5C) with a high arch and a thick ankle. Generally I fit men's shoes better than women's but the Keens worked well.
Traditional bike shoes cut into the tendon on the front of my ankle but the sandals are cut a little lower.
I also appreciate the ease of clipping in and out having good traction on slick streets, tile floors, short stretches of gravel. They are walkable, perfect for bike commuting, touring, breakfast/coffee rides. I keep the pedals set on loose tension so I can wear the sandals a little floppy and loose but still have good attachment for climbing out of saddle or for hard sprints. The sole also lets me take a few pedal strokes unclipped in - useful in packed crowds with novices and kids, or when having to sprint uphill across a busy road from a dead stop.
When bike commuting to work, I do keep normal shoes at my desk and change. It saves wear on the sandals and is more appropriate in my office.
I am able to just slide my foot in the Keens like wearing a pair of loafers.
As far as "cute", you can make your fashion statement with your sock choice. Barbie doll pink, simple white, HiVis yellow, stripes, sock monkeys - go crazy.
The sandals are heavy compared to regular shoes, but that's about the only downside. It hasn't been a problem for me.
My foot is rigid and I do not like a lot of support. I am sure that would make a lot of difference in how comfortable you would find them.
Also, I bought my first pair at a bike store that keeps them in stock so I was able to try them on before purchase.