The Heeled Flip-Flop Is Summer's Biggest Shoe Trend—Here's How to Style It
Flats have dominated the conversation all year, effortlessly eclipsing even the perennial appeal of slingbacks, classic pumps, and heeled boots. But as summer unfolds, one silhouette is quietly shifting the mood. Heeled flip-flops—once considered a nostalgic relic of the early aughts—have returned with a decidedly refined sensibility, emerging as the season's most compelling sandal trend.
The strongest case for their revival isn't found on the runway alone, but in the street style outfits of the fashion set. From fluid balloon pants and printed trousers to relaxed denim and slip dresses, the styling possibilities feel both polished and refreshingly effortless. Their appeal lies in that rare balance of ease and elevation, offering just enough height without sacrificing the laid-back spirit of summer dressing.
If the trend once felt polarizing, today's interpretations make a convincing argument otherwise. Sleek, minimalist, and undeniably versatile, heeled flip-flops have become the unexpected finishing touch to the season's most coveted looks. Ahead, discover how the style set is wearing them now, and shop the pairs destined to anchor your summer wardrobe.
Style Notes: Thong sandals with an A-line skirt and simple top is the low-key outfit combination that looks so luxe.
Style Notes: Tap into the printed pant trend. Pull it off best by sticking with white sandals.
Style Notes: All the most trendsetting fashion people are wearing slip dresses with bold, colorful flip-flop heels.
Style Notes: Use minimalist sandals as an accent against an all-white outfit with just the shoes and another accessory such as a belt or sunglasses as the contrasts.
Style Notes: Even with a smart pair of trousers, they'll bring a trend-forward element that will make all your tailored outfits immediately feel fresher.
Style Notes: The barely there vibe of the sandals makes them a perfect base to a more eye-catching piece like balloon pants.
Kristen Nichols is the Associate Director, Special Projects at Who What Wear where she oversees luxury, runway content, and wedding features, and covers fashion within the luxury market, runway reporting, shopping features, trends, and interviews with leading industry experts. Kristen has worked with brands including Prada, Chanel, and Tiffany & Co., and her style has been featured in publications including The New York Times, Vogue.com, Vogue France, WWD, and the CFDA. Kristen began her career at Rodarte, where she worked on styling, photo shoots, and runway shows, and at Allure, where she moved into print and digital editorial. She graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied art history and business, and currently lives in New York.