If you were worried about the return of the '90s strappy sandal, you might want to avert your eyes because lip flops are officially back. But the modern iteration of the controversial footwear is a lot fancier than we remember. These aren’t the high school Havaianas ELLE.com first reported on after Copenhagen Fashion Week in 2018. No, high fashion brands are raising the stakes...and their price tags.
The thonged sandals popping up on our feed today are elevated with a minimalist touch. Gianvito Rossi's leather flats perfectly capture the beach-to-office vibe we’re chasing this summer. Sure, they cost about $600, but these could easily be worn with slouchy slacks and make you feel like an Olsen twin. Similarly chic, Reformation's recently launched sandal collection features a stiletto heel that makes a case for flip flops at a wedding. Yes, you read that right. Flip flops at a wedding are totally ok.
High heeled flip flops are here with some celebrity representation, too: Kim Kardashian West recently championed the trend, wearing a pair with Christian Dior's newspaper print (once worn by Carrie Bradshaw). If the mule flat was our go-to shoe in 2018, the fancy flip flop is our new favorite. Prep that space between your big toe and second toe, immediately.
Shop the Best Flip Flops at Every Price Point
Staud Rio leather sandals
Justine Carreon is the market editor at ELLE.com covering fashion, Dutch ovens, and fashion again. When she isn’t approaching style through a modern, accessible lens, she’s scouring eBay for vintage Levi’s and pretending she knows how to surf. Before joining ELLE.com in 2015 she worked as a freelance writer and stylist in New York City.
