In the summer when the sun is out and the days are long and busy, it's important to have a roster of easy outfit formulas you can rely on. Simple pairings are often the most effective, whether it's a lightweight linen dress and strappy sandals, a matching shirt-and-shorts set or the classic jeans and T-shirt combo. All of the above are also more likely to stand the test of time than a fussy ensemble featuring complicated silhouettes and clashing colours—unless you're a proud maximalist, of course.
But for all the minimalists among us, you'll know the excitement of discovering an effortless styling idea to add to your arsenal. And there's one union, in particular, that's risen the ranks and seems to appear every time I visit my Instagram feed. I'm talking about jeans and flip-flops.
I know, I know; flip-flops don't exactly scream 'fashion'. But the humble beach shoe has experienced quite the renaissance over the past couple of years, mostly due to the popularity of The Row's Ginza sandal. This platform silhouette features the characteristic thong detailing, elevated with thicker-than-usual straps and a smooth leather finish. The Olsen twins' covetable creation was the sandal of summer 2021, kicking off what can only be described as an obsession—now, you'll struggle to find a footwear brand that hasn't released its own version of the 'chic flip-flop'.
And in truth, there's no better sandal to make your beloved denim feel summer-appropriate. The two work in tandem to create a cool, laid-back vibe that's bang-on-brand for the warmer month. Scroll on to see five on-point outfits that demonstrate exactly what I mean.
1. Blazer + Straight-Leg Jeans + Low-Heel Flip-Flops
Style Notes: For a dressier flip-flop look, opt for a low-heeled design and add a blazer into the mix for good measure. Ready for whatever your evening has in store.
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A butter yellow blazer will work hard in your summer capsule wardrobe.
Love these.
The kind of everyday bag you'll never tire of.
I think these look so much more premium than their £28 price tag.
2. Floral Blouse + Blue Jeans + Chunky Flip-Flops
Style Notes: A billowy floral blouse is a warm-weather essential; styled with this and platform flip-flops, your denim will feel like it was made for the summer months.
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Sezane is the master of french-inspired prints.
All of our editors rate these Cos Jeans.
Flip-flop royalty.
3. Bardot Top + Grey Jeans + Heeled Flip-Flops
Style Notes: Heeled flip-flops are the ultimate comfortable night-out shoe. Stick to a monochrome palette for an elegant result, perhaps with a fun splash of colour in your accessories.
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So chic.
The perfect jean to tuck tight-fitting tops into.
This compact bag will be perfect for taking on holiday.
I bet you didn't think flip-flops could look this sophisticated.
4. Baby Tee + Baggy Jeans + Pastel Flip-Flops
Style Notes: If you feel like boxy T-shirts don't suit you, consider a more fitted 'baby tee'—the shrunken shape works especially well with baggy jeans. Add a pair of colourful flip-flops that peek out when you walk.
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So cute.
Crafted from organic cotton.
This pair makes me feel super nostalgic.
5. Relaxed Shirt + Ecru Jeans + Flat Flip-Flops
Style Notes: When it's warm out, swap your blue jeans for ecru denim. Then, tuck in a light-coloured shirt and complete the easy ensemble with a pair of strappy black sandals.
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A fan favourite.
These are selling down fast, so grab them if you have an ecru-jeans-shaped hole in your wardrobe.
Summers it-bag.
These are sitting in my basket.
6. Puff Sleeve Blouse + Wide Leg Jeans + Black Flip Flops
Style Notes: This ensemble marries romantic detailing with relaxed tailoring. The puff sleeve blouse introduces a delicate touch, while the wide-leg jeans offer a laid-back silhouette. Grounding the look with black flip-flops adds a minimalist edge, perfect for a casual yet polished appearance.
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A sweet blouse featuring voluminous sleeves and a tie-front detail, adding a modern twist to a classic piece.
High-rise jeans with a wide-leg cut, offering both comfort and a flattering fit.
Easy, minimal, chic.
7. Oversized T-Shirt + Barrel Jeans + Jelly Flip Flops
Style Notes: Embrace a relaxed aesthetic with this combination. The oversized T-shirt offers a comfortable, effortless vibe, while the barrel jeans introduce a contemporary silhouette. Jelly flip-flops add a playful, nostalgic touch, perfect for casual outings.
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A roomy cotton tee that drapes effortlessly, ideal for achieving that laid-back look.
Jeans featuring a curved leg design, offering a modern take on classic denim.
Translucent flip-flops that bring a fun, retro flair to your ensemble.
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