With every season, there comes along a perfect shoe trend, and every brand from the runway to the high street rushes to release their own. Last autumn gave us the chunky loafer, then winter was all about the party platform, and spring was a moment for the fisherman sandal to make yet another appearance, but among the plethora of stylish options for summer, there is a strong contender that has been quietly moving its way up the ranks. It is the flip-flop but not as you know it.
Far from the foam-soled, plastic-strapped sandals from holidays of yesteryear, flip-flops have had a luxurious upgrade. Think premium leather slip-ons with a micro kitten heel for a little elegant uplift. And if you weren't already convinced, the shoe style is getting the celebrity stamp of approval too.
Proving that these are the current shoes to be seen in, Rachel Stevens stepped out in not one but two pairs of heeled thong sandals in recent days, pairing black mules with one of Team Who What Wear's favourite Sleeper Dresses and the Dear Frances Wrap Sandal with a Nobody's Child linen dress perfect for summer. In fact, an airy midi and heeled flip-flops just might be the easy summer outfit equation we've been searching for (and just in time for a heatwave no less).
And it isn't just Stevens putting her best foot forward in these sandals. When trendsetter and all-round icon Sienna Miller stepped out on the streets of NYC in a white ruched dress and thong heels, we were treated to a masterclass in how to wear the shoes for evening, too. So you needn't worry about how long your feet can stand a strappy stiletto. This is a wearable trend that we can get behind.
Chicer than beach-ready flip-flops but still the ideal hot-weather option for summer in the city, this versatile shoe trend is like the cooler sister of the strappy sandal and is popping up everywhere for good reason. Wear it with light dresses, shirts and shorts, wide-leg linen pants—in fact, anything you'd wear your regular flats with. And as Miller has proven, it's equally good with event dresses and great for wedding season.
Keep scrolling to shop our edit of the best heeled thong sandals on the market now.
Totême is a Who What Wear favourite for its minimalist '90s aesthetic and eye for master craftsmanship with premium finishing touches.
You can get Rachel Stevens's exact block-heeled pair in white, black and pecan, but we love this luxurious shade Creme.
This bright shade of tangerine orange is summer in a shoe.
The square-toe detail makes these sandals look instantly more expensive.
A sculptural, block heel is a contemporary take on the traditional kitten heel.
If you aren't already familiar with Senso's brand of eye-catching footwear, these zebra-print sandals are the perfect introduction—a guaranteed conversation starter.
Take notes from Stevens, and wear these with a simple black midi. The pop of colour is the only point of interest you'll need.
The padding doesn't stop at the plush strap. The footbeds are cushioned too, so you're guaranteed comfy all-day wear.
Act fast to get this chic tan style. The orange version sold out quickly, and there is a limited number left of this version in understated nude.
Love stilettos but hate skyscraper heels? Consider these the wearable alternative.
It just doesn't get better than cloud-cushioned padding in buttery-soft leather.
This shade of vinyl blue might look perfect for lounging poolside, but it's also elegant enough for your next summer event. Just add a sweeping, printed midi dress.
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