Flip-flops were once reserved for the beach or lounging by the pool. But now, the slip-on-and-go staple has become a bona fide fashion essential, thanks to modern upgrades that make them look chicer than ever. From the latest square-toe details on a classic pair of Havaianas to a studded strap on Balenciaga slides, the newest designs turn the timeless sandal into a style-forward must-have.
Even better, today’s flip-flops don’t feel like an afterthought. Recent drops are polished enough to wear to a fancy brunch or even a summer wedding. Just ask Kendall Jenner, who’s been spotted wearing sculptural stiletto flip-flops by Alaïa with a celebration-worthy dress in her latest FWRD campaign. Zoë Kravitz has also been a fan, often pairing barely-there thong sandals with loose trousers or oversize shirting in true downtown style star form.
Fashion insiders are co-signing the look too. Street style at the Copenhagen and Paris shows revealed a wave of editors styling flip-flops with maxi skirts, tailored vests, and even eveningwear. The effortless contrast delivers the kind of easy-going elegance typically found on the French Riviera.
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Of course, nothing in fashion is ever entirely 'new'. Nostalgic references are fueling the flip-flop revival as well. Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy famously wore them in SoHo in the ’90s, giving the ultra-minimal shoe a polished, off-duty vibe that still resonates. Today’s versions echo that ease—but with a luxury twist.
No matter the event on your calendar, flip-flops are the ultimate dependable hero to slip into this summer—and with the right styling, they might just be the chicest choice you make.
Discover the best-in-category flip-flops to shop in our curated selection below.
Flat Flip-Flops
Nothing beats a flip-flop that has withstood the test of time. You can never go wrong with tried-and-true styles by Tkees or a beloved Tory Burch flip-flop.
Havaianas Slim Square Sandal
Veronica Beard Clea Flip-Flop
Proenza Schouler Cable Thong Sandals
Tkees Foundations Matte Flip-Flop
Gucci Minorca Horsebit Rubber Sandal
Studded Flip-Flops
The best micro-trend to try within this category is the studded flip-flop. Whether you gravitate towards grommets or bulbous beads, this flashy take will make your vacation outfits feel festive.
Arezzo Sunny Flip-Flop
Balenciaga Cagole Studded Flip-Flop
Zara Thong Leather Sandals
Mango Grommet Flip-Flop
Tory Burch Miller Flip-Flop
Leather Flip-Flops
The easiest way to elevate the humble flip-flop is with quality materials—like the leather straps on these coveted styles.
A.Emery Kinto Sandals
The Row Ginza Flip-Flop
Ancient Greek Sandals Saionara Sandal
Aeyde Renee Leather Flip-Flop
Jil Sander Thong Sandal
Tory Burch Leather Platform Flip-Flop
Kitten Heel Flip-Flops
Want a little height without any discomfort? Reach for a kitten heel option. These styles pair with everything, from Bermuda shorts to linen pants.
Neil J. Rodgers Pebble Sandal
Mango Heeled Sandal
Tony Bianco Krista Sandal
Steve Madden Allies Sandal
Cushionaire Miami Kitten Heel
Kitten-heel sandals
High Heel Flip-Flops
You can also go all out with sky-high flip-flops created by your favorite designer. The choice is yours.
Paris Texas Lorena Thong 100 Mule
Ferragamo Lyrai Leather Sandal
The Row Signum Heeled Sandal
Bottega Veneta Marella Thong
Gia Borghini Lara Leather Thong Sandal
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Alexis Bennett Parker is the Commerce Content Lead at ELLE.com. In this newly created role, she oversees all shopping-related stories online, from fashion-forward trend pieces to the most coveted beauty buys on the market right now. Alexis has worked in the publishing space for 11 years, and seven of those years have been dedicated to helping shoppers make informed purchases—no buyer’s remorse here! Before joining the team at ELLE.com, she worked in the editorial departments of Vogue, Cosmopolitan, and InStyle, to name a few magazines. Not only has Alexis worked closely with several brands and tested hundreds of products over the course of her career, but she’s also won awards for her work as a shopping journalist. Namely, she was an honoree at the Pynk Magazine Gala in 2023, received the Condé Nast Commerce Content Award for Best Article by a New Hire in 2021, and was included on the Top 40 Under 40 Heir’s List in 2018.
