Flip flops: The summer shoe that never goes out of style
A summer wardrobe staple that goes far beyond just the beach, here’s how to up your flip flop game this season
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Flip flops are probably one of the most controversial shoes. Up there with the likes of jelly sandals and those barely-there mesh ballet flats, they most certainly aren’t for everyone, or every occasion. But, much like these other styles, love them, hate them or have no real opinion of them at all, flip flops are back for summer 2025.
A ‘90s and Noughties favourite, and typically the footwear of choice for long, sandy days on the beach, the super casual thong sandal silhouette is trending this season. Whether paired with casual attire, such as a T-shirt and your favourite denim shorts or a floaty maxi dress, or upgraded in leather and worn with slick tailoring for a smart, work appropriate aesthetic, they’re versatile, cool (in both senses of the word) and a perfect option for slipping on during a heatwave.
Spotted on the SS25 runways at Miu Miu, Dior, Ferragamo and The Row, they’re very much a must-have this summer. But if your experience of flip flops extends only as far as Havaianas, we’ve got news for you. For SS25, designers have given the humble style a luxe glow-up, offering them in all kinds of styles – from flat to platform to heeled, and from plain to patterned to boldly coloured.
Not sure where to start? Shop our favourite pairs below, from The Row’s Nineties-inspired platforms to Amina Muaddi’s heeled iteration and Reformation’s classic thong design.
Christopher Esber Jo PVC flip flops
Bring beach vibes to the street with Christopher Esber’s flip flops. Featuring shiny soles and Italian PVC straps in a cute baby blue shade, they’ll look just as good with your bikini and mojito as they will your sophisticated work attire.
The Row Dune grosgrain platform flip flops
Throw it back to the ’90s with a pair of platform flip flops. The Row nails the look with this chunky style, crafted with textured rubber soles and thick cotton grosgrain straps. A simple design that will add instant height and cool-girl spirit, wear with shorts, jeans and dresses alike.
Toteme Croc-effect leather flip flops
Quite the opposite of The Row’s thick-heeled silhouette, Toteme offers an elegant, more refined pair of flip flops. A sleek sole with slim straps and square toes in a chic croc-effect leather, pair yours with smart tailoring for the office or a maxi dress for date night.
Amina Muaddi leather Juliette sandals
Why not take it up a notch with a pair of heeled flip flops? An elevated take on the beach-to-street trend, they offer a grown-up, slightly more dressy look. This pair from Amina Muaddi are set on a pyramid-shaped sculptural heel for a feminine style and finished in a shiny patent black leather for a seductive edge, perfect for date night in the warmer months.
Valentino Garavani Rockstud flip flops
Valentino’s flip flops ooze rock chick style. A rubber soled design finished with the brand’s signature rockstud embellishments and feminine bows, slip on for casual elegance with a modern, slightly grungy edge.
Bobbies Hiromi platform flip flops
For a low-key, breezy choice of footwear during the summer months, Bobbie’s Hiromi tonal flip flops are the perfect choice. Crafted from lambskin leather in a minimal beige hue and finished with a small platform heel, thick thong strap and square toes, they offer an elegant and relaxed style that can be dressed up and down for ultimate versatility.
Ancient Greek Sandals Saionara leather flip flops
For a bold choice of footwear, make Ancient Greek Sandals your point of call. The Sainoiara flip flops have a slightly elevated heel and are rendered in a lively red hue to bring a striking finish to your outfit. Better yet, they’re made from chemical-free leather by local artisans, showcasing impeccable quality and craftsmanship.
Reformation Jessie thong sandal
Reformation’s Jessie flip flops are footwear’s answer to easy dressing for every occasion. Whether a laidback casual vibe or a more formal affair, the design is minimal, sleek, and available in multiple colour hues to cater for all tastes and events. Our top pick is this gorgeous avocado suede.
Azzedine Alaia Leopard-Print Sandals
A timeless pattern, leopard print is always a winner, and these Azzedine Alaia flip flops prove it. Crafted from 100 per cent calf hair for a textured finish, with thong straps and round toes, this design is one that will look sharp this season and beyond.
Loewe + Paula's Ibiza Bubble rubber slides
A rather bold take on the flip flop, Loewe + Paula Ibiza’s slides are chunky, playful and effortlessly chic. An oversized rubber silhouette embellished with a gold-tone bubble and featuring the label’s ‘Anagram’, they’re perfect for glamorous pool parties, picnics in the park and al fresco sundowners.
Loeffler Randall Taryn jelly flip flop
A step up from your beachside pair, raise your flip flop game with Loeffler Randall’s Taryns, made from a jelly PVC and adorned with dazzling rhinestones. An understated neutral palette, they’ll pair with everything from shorts to dresses while offering a touch of sparkly diva style to boot.
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