I will be the first to admit that I never thought flip-flops would have a place in my wardrobe, but the industry has me changing my tune. The Olsen twins (naturally) were the first to tap into my inner '90s child heart with The Row, presenting thong sandals as the ultimate easygoing summer shoes a few years ago and putting a thought in my head that I haven't been able to shake since. Perhaps the outdated nature of flip-flops is the whole appeal.
It comes as no surprise that the Olsens led the charge as early as 2021 with the ultimate union of sophistication and ease, all based on a seemingly simple staple. Is the popularity of classic flip-flops a product of our parallel upbringings or our love for their carefree aesthetic? Either way, as we enter the warm-weather season, thong sandals are on track to becoming the transitional (climate-dependent) companion to light jackets and trousers.
The spring-to-summer weather change calls for an easygoing combination of items from the current and upcoming seasons. According to Hailey Bieber, the trouser-and–flip-flop look is the best of both worlds. The spring/summer 2025 runways are aligned as well. Brands like Alaïa and Sportmax presented variations of polished thong sandals that are guaranteed to have you scheduling a pedicure.
Alaïa S/S 25
Whether you were a previous skeptic (admitting personal defeat) or a longtime enthusiast, below are some of my favorite fashion follows that have perfected the thong-sandal look.
Baby-Doll Dress + Chain Necklace + Sunglasses + Thong Sandals
An easy, breezy baby-doll dress is an obvious warm-weather favorite. Keep it simple and cute with a light chain necklace and timeless Wayfarer sunglasses. Toss on effortless white thong sandals for the European summer look.
Bucket Hat + T-Shirt + Linen Pants + Thong Sandals
Cool girls are styling their flip-flop sandals with a casual yet calculated 'fit. The boldness of colorful linen pants is balanced by the relaxed nature of a simple white T-shirt. Naturally, a bucket hat perfects this laid-back outfit.
Halter Top + Midi Skirt + Hoop Earrings + Thong Sandals
This super-summery ensemble is characterized by the monochromatic white pieces. The halter, midi skirt, and thong sandals keep the crisp white story, and a simple hoop decorates. This is the ultimate peak-heat combo.
Cardigan + Barrel Jeans + Anklet + Thong Sandals
For a work-from-home twist on flip-flops, add in a neutral cardigan and ivory barrel jeans. Taking the dog out or running a quick errand demands you accent the outfit with statement flip-flops. This is the fashion-industry uniform of spring and summer.
Baby Tee + Linen Pants + Slouchy Bag + Thong Sandals
The Copenhagen fashion crowd is always wearing the easiest trends in the coolest way, and they're some of my favorite women to follow. A throw-on baby tee and a pair of low-slung linen trousers is the blueprint. Slide into your flip-flops and (inadvertently) match your everyday tote.
Cropped Blouse + Striped Shorts + Anklet + Thong Sandals
Skip the traditional peasant blouse for the airy, cropped version in light white. Whether they're boxer shorts or knit hot pants, striped shorts are the ultimate companion to this fresh top. Play on vacation colors and beach vibes with a puka shell anklet and bright sandals.
Button-Down Shirt + Belt + Miniskirt + Thong Sandals
The unexpected styling of the flip-flops, courtesy of the Danes, makes them cooler than ever. Butter yellow continues its reign with a nonchalant button-down and miniskirt. The best part is the dichotomy of black accents in the form of a studded belt and jet-black flip-flops.
