I'm a Fashion Editor, and Here's How I'm Wearing 2019's Controversial Shoe Trend

how-to-wear-thong-sandals-281439-1563832148707-main

(Image credit: @anna__laplaca)

If you had asked me not too long ago to name a few of the trends I'd never step foot in, thong sandals would have topped that list. But, as the headline suggests, I've since come around to the controversial shoe trend that's been taking 2019 by storm. With so many fashion people styling the sandals, it was finally time I put my hesitation toward flip-flops behind me and started introducing them into my summer outfit rotation.

Last month, I headed to Hawaii to put the flip-flop trend to the test with none other than the Brazilian brand that's been making the sandals so iconic for 50 years, Havaianas. Between exploring the sleepy surf towns on Oahu's North Shore, hiking up to stunning vista points, taking a sunset boat ride, and even trying out surfing for myself, I styled a few pairs of its thong sandals in the chicest ways I knew how.

If you're hesitant to test out the sandals for yourself, feel free to copy one (or all) of the outfits I'm sharing below. I won't mind. To see how I wore thong sandals throughout the trip and shop my favorite pairs, simply keep scrolling.

how-to-wear-thong-sandals-281439-1563832179423-image

(Image credit: @brooklynhawaii)

The easygoing sandals make for the perfect base for my favorite summer dresses.

how-to-wear-thong-sandals-281439-1563832180196-image

(Image credit: @anna__laplaca)

They showcased my anklet stack quite well.

how-to-wear-thong-sandals-281439-1563832180639-image

(Image credit: @anna__laplaca)

I love how the flip-flops are a bit unexpected here with a more formal dress. I'm all about mixing high and low, so this is an outfit combo I'll definitely be trying again soon.

how-to-wear-thong-sandals-281439-1563832181032-image

(Image credit: @anna__laplaca)

Havaianas may have been around for a long time, but here I paired the sandals with another controversial summer trend, denim Bermuda shorts, to prove that they can be equally as trendy as they are timeless.

how-to-wear-thong-sandals-281439-1563833299312-main

(Image credit: @anna__laplaca)

More proof that the sandals play well with summer's biggest trends like bike shorts, tie-dye, and bucket hats.

how-to-wear-thong-sandals-281439-1563832181844-image

(Image credit: @anna__laplaca)

Oh, you thought I was done putting my sandals to the test? Here's one last outfit I wore—a simple tank top and jean shorts look—that I've since repeated multiple times.

More of my favorite outfits with thong sandals:

A photo posted by on

Go matchy-matchy with a colorful maxi dress. With so many color options the sandals come in, it's not hard to match up the shades perfectly.

A photo posted by on

Calling all minimalists, I think you're going to vibe with this look.

A photo posted by on

Fashion's most forward crowd is wearing the brand's original logo pair.

A photo posted by on

Tailored trousers and a cool blouse are excellent ways to elevate the sandals.

A photo posted by on

If you're a skirt person, this one goes out to you.

This press trip was paid for by Havaianas. Editor's opinions are her own.

Editor

Anna is an editor on the fashion team at Who What Wear and has been at the company for over five years, having begun her career in the Los Angeles office before relocating to New York, where she's currently based. Having always been passionate about pursuing a career in fashion, she built up her experience interning at the likes of Michael Kors, A.L.C., and College Fashionista before joining the team as a post-graduate assistant editor. Anna has penned a number of interviews with Who What Wear's cover stars over the years, including A-listers Megan Fox, Issa Rae, and Emma Chamberlain. She's earned a reputation for scouting new and emerging brands from across the globe and championing them to our audience of millions. While fashion is her main wheelhouse, Anna led the launch of WWW Travels last year, a new lifestyle vertical that highlights all things travel through a fashion-person lens. She is passionate about shopping vintage, whether it be at a favorite local outpost or an on-the-road discovery, and has amassed a wardrobe full of unique finds. When she's not writing, you can find her shooting street imagery on her film camera, attempting to learn a fourth or fifth language, or planning her next trip across the globe.