Cool Girls in London, NYC and Paris Are Making This "Boring" Summer Shoe Trend Look Expensive With These 5 Bottoms
Wondering what to wear this summer? Flip flops have had an upgrade in 2026, and fashion insiders have mastered the formula to making them look luxurious.
If you've been out and about this summer thus far, and with such hot spells, who hasn't? You will have noticed that one particular shoe has suddenly been on the feet of all of the best dressed women: flip-flops. Granted, flip-flops aren't conversation starters quite like jelly sandals, and no, they aren't particularly a throwback trend like wedge sandals, but something about their pared-back minimalism feels divisive in an era of "more-is-more" maximalism.
Rubber, suede or leather, flip-flops are an easy, everyday style that you can throw on with casual outfits, but if you're looking to level up your summer shoe game, a heeled flip-flop is where it's at. Dressier and more elegant, the slight lift of a low-heel takes the flip-flop from beach shoe to summer in the city, and they feel wholly fresh for the 2020s.
With any heeled sandal it feels obvious to pair them with dresses, but if you're building a summer wardrobe that revolves around separates, you're going to be wondering which trousers and skirts look best. Well, we did the hard work for you and searched through socials to find out which really are the best bottoms to wear with flip-flop heels, and the results may surprise you.
Keep scrolling to see the six outfits that get this fashion editor's stamp of approval, just in time for the next heatwave.
1. Maxi Skirt
Style Notes: Long sleeve tees might be having a moment, but you can't beat a classic white tank for practicality. This easy, versatile base is the foundation for so many great outfits, but Alice's long black skirt [pictured above] manages to make jersey feel anything but basic. Adding a kitten heel flip-flop to this look is exactly the right balance of high/low styling to take the look from day to night at a moment's notice.
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I buy all of my basics from COS.
You'll wear this all year round.
Toteme's croc-effect patent sandals will add polish to even the most basic look.
Cord necklaces are still huge right now.
2. Capri Trousers
Style Notes: I'm sorry, we're just not done with capri trousers, and for those who still disparage "pedal pushers", it's only because you haven't found the right pair yet. Take Liv's look [above] as an example. Perfect for evenings abroad, but equally good for weekends at home, in this case her choice of heel (a chic wedge), pair perfectly with cropped trousers that let the shoes do all of the talking.
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I recommend Ninety Percent's draped tops to anyone who will listen.
Firm, sculpting support.
These look so much more expensive than they are.
This would double up as a great beach bag.
3. Wide Leg Trousers
Style Notes: We may have sunshine now, but on the days that the weather gets a little cooler, a light jacket is always a good idea. Windbreakers, waterproofs and zip-ups have been getting a lot of airtime recently, and for very good reason. These casual jackets can be bundled up in your bag and thrown on over your tanks and tees, but Hannah's decision to pair hers with a smarter trouser and a pop-of-colour shoe makes it feel office appropriate and not just weekend attire.
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So similar to Hannah's own jacket.
Just the right amount of slouch.
The pop of red is an instant mood-lifter.
If you're looking for a pair of sunglasses worth investing in, start at Linda Farrow.
4. White Jeans
Style Notes: You don't have to wait until summer to wear white jeans, but if you have been looking for a way to style them up, kitten heel flip-flops could be the shoe you've been waiting for. Lorna wears hers with the kind of nautical stripes that wouldn't look out of place on a yacht [pictured above], but you could easily swap a polo for a pretty blouse, cute cardigan or oversized shirt.
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A great find, and currently in the sale.
Whistles jeans are some of the best on the high street.
Such an unexpectedly chic colourway.
Tan leather and canvas always reminds me of Mediterranean holidays.
5. Khaki Trousers
Style Notes: Monikh's outfit [above] isn't just a masterclass in colour blocking, it also plays with texture too. Rugged khakis (whether that be linen, denim or cargo trousers), look particularly good offset again smooth, glossy leather, and the colour feels like a warm weather alternative to your everyday denim blues.
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H&M always know how to do brights.
Citizens of Humanity aren't just experts in blue jeans.
A special pair of sandals for a 'treat yourself' moment.
Forget subtle chains, I'm all about Dinosaur Designs' statement bangles.
