You might not think that something that the classic flip flop would ever make it into the higher echelons of style because after all, we have been described as a nation where flip flops + denim shorts + tank tops are the norm.
But if designers from Acne Studios to Etro are making it the it-shoe of the summer, we say, it’s time to slip your toes into them whether you’re headed out for brunch or walking down the sunny streets of Bali.
These are ten of our favourite flip flops styles ranging from the classics, the furry, and the embellished – all to be worn dressed up however daringly you please or casual cool for equally casual days.
Photo: Instagram/toteme
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We wouldn’t put it past the Swedish label to create something so minimal but yet stylish – a slight platform gives you height and its sumptuous leather elevates its sophistication.
You might be tempted to wear it with simple day dresses but we think it looks good with a linen suit too for some style swerve.
Photo: Cos
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You can’t escape the explosion of furry shoes and if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em with the four different colours these Ugg flip flops come in – a purple, grey, black, pink.
They’re a little too casual for the workplace (even if you’re working in a coworking space) so reserve them for the weekends when you’re zipping to brunch or the supermarket.
Photo: Ugg
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Pleasingly simple and in a bright optic shade of white, these Zara sandals are also an incredible joy to wear or clean – its PU leather material means all you need to do is to take a damp cloth and wipe it down if it gets dirty.
Tip number two: it looks fantastic when worn with white dresses with eyelets and lace.
Photo: Zara
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One of our tiny nation’s most recognisable brands, these aren’t the typical Havaianas worn by soccer mums or army boys, these are golden ones that scream Ibiza-holiday. Which also means you can and should be wearing it with beach-babe worthy hair, a tan, and if we can stress it enough, a pop of colour on your toes.
Photo: Flop Store
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The iconic golden stud has appeared on the brand’s heels, sneakers and wedges but now, it elevates the casual thong sandals.
Our favourite are these neutral-coloured ones that provide mileage because they’re great for the office and anywhere else you wear them – they also look equally good when worn with statement coloured pieces as they do with neutral coloured ones.
Photo: Valentino
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Featuring the brand’s iconic G in its equally iconic font, these flip flops look “cheap” and “non-designer” which makes them even more fun to wear because after all, it’s an inside joke to anybody who grew up on a diet of trendy ‘90s wear.
Whilst we don’t recommend you wear them a la Jennifer Lopez, we think these flip flops look great with simpler outfits that consist of boyfriend shirts and jeans.
Photo: Zalora
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When the high-street brand does trendy, they really do go all out. But we think their footwear shines more when it’s kept simple – the black thin woven leather strap makes it look more expensive than it is (your friends might think there’s an extra 0 to the price) and the camel brown footbed makes a nice colour contrast to the strap.
Wear it often and with everything you already own.
Photo: H&M
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If you’re not a fan of minimal or edgy, you’re probably going to love how unabashedly pretty these flip flops are because after all, they’re decked out with faux pearls and diamante.
Don’t think they’re reserved just for the weekend though, they’ll look equally as good with evening pieces like slip dresses for an unexpected look.
Photo: Pazzion
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The ankle straps scream French girl and the elevated footbed is reminiscent of Japanese clog shoes – two reasons why we love this pair from the brand that makes some of the best summer sandals.
But we’re going to throw you a third reason: they’re going to pass the test of any restaurant that says “no flip flops” allowed because of how expensive and stylish they look.
Photo: Net-a-Porter
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It’s not a stretch to assume that the king of jet-setter style would have some of the more stylish sandals but Michael Kors has upped the ante – a bright and happy coral orange and a tough-girl metal strap make these sandals one of the styles you should be coveting this season.
And when you’re done with summer, they make the perfect pop of colour once you transition into fall.
Photo: Michael Kors
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