Within the realm of fashion, few items elicit as much debate as the humble flip-flop. Known as thong sandals, these footwear staples are defined by their Y-shaped strap, separating the big toe from the rest, often synonymous with beachwear or swimwear. While a blend of practicality and style, flip-flops have faced criticism regarding their design and aesthetic integrity, deemed less sophisticated compared to their structured counterparts. However, with the rise of high-low dressing and the merging of unconventional style archetypes, flip-flops have become a year-round essential for many, especially those seeking relief from summer heat. Spearheaded by brands like The Row, who have set the stage for the flip-flop’s comeback with their exquisitely crafted calfskin offerings, these sandals have witnessed a surge in popularity in recent months.
Celebrities have enthusiastically reintroduced flip-flops into their footwear repertoire, with style icons like Bella Hadid, Zoey Kravitz, and Emily Ratajkowski spotted strutting the streets in various iterations. On the runway, flip-flops have also made a triumphant return in recent seasons, with fashion powerhouses such as Chanel, Jil Sander, and Jacquemus showcasing reimagined silhouettes crafted from refined materials and constructions. If you’re ready to embrace the flip-flop trend, brands like Ancient Greek Sandals and Saint Laurent offer sleek and chic options exuding minimalism and sophistication, timeless pairs suitable for any occasion. For a touch of elegance, Totême and Proenza Schouler present heeled versions perfect for a date night or a sophisticated cocktail evening, while Coperni and Melissa’s bold wedge options provide fun and eclectic styling opportunities, playing with proportions.
And who can forget Havaianas flip-flops, long a household staple due to their unmatched versatility, comfort, and ease of wear? Inexpensive and durable, these flip-flops come in a myriad of colors, catering to all styles and preferences. Vogue Singapore has curated a selection of the best flip-flops currently available, ensuring you find the perfect pair to embrace this enduring trend.
1/14 The Row Ginza platform flip-flops, $1,673 Available at Net-a-Porter.
2/14 Saint Laurent leather thong slides, $1,078 Available at Farfetch.
3/14 Prada velvet thong flip-flops, $1,370 Available at Prada.
4/14 Ancient Greek Sandals Saionara flip-flops, $240 Available at Ancient Greek Sandals.
5/14 Tory Burch Kira logo flip-flops, $128 Available at Neiman Marcus.
6/14 Totême heeled flip-flops, $527 Available at Totême.
7/14 Melissa platform flip-flops, $139 Available at Melissa Singapore.
8/14 Coperni wedge flip-flops, $791 Available at Coperni.
9/14 Magda Butrym wedge heeled sandals, $1,388 Available at SSENSE.
10/14 Sol Sana Sir heel sandals, $164 Available at Sol Sana.
11/14 Giuseppe Zanotti Cruel leather flip-flops, $1000 Available at Farfetch.
12/14 Proenza Schouler spike flip-flops, $476 Available at SSENSE.
13/14 Tory Burch crystal-embellished thong sandals, $560 Available at Farfetch.
14/14 Havaianas slim sparkle flip-flops, $50 Available at Havaianas Singapore.