I'd like to personally invite you to embrace post-pedicure style. We should be encouraged by the spring runways that warned us flip-flops were due for a serious moment, essentially giving us permission to start dressing as though we've just returned from the hotel spa (or local nail salon) with a book under our arm and dismissive out of office auto-reply turned on.
In fact, consider this an intro to OOOutfits [hold for applause], dedicated to those among us who are committed to dressing for S/S 19 as though we're perpetually on vacation. The four summer outfits below are essentially the contents of my carry-on, as worn shamelessly around New York whilst daring anyone to comment. PS, if you think there's a single summer trend that doesn't work with a pair of Havaianas, you'd be wrong. Incontrovertible evidence below.
This look is inspired by: Everyone I unfollow on Instagram when they post photos of themselves in Santorini while I'm at work. (You know who you are, [name redacted].)
Key styling elements: A strong tonal vibe, a croc-effect bag, and some shameless midriff. Please also note that I'm styling up my rose-gold sandals with a necklace worn as an anklet (this is because anklets are a universal signal that one is on vacation).
Best worn when: Dashing for your plane through an Italian airport, or for the L train when it runs 20 minutes apart on nights and weekends. (This hustle-friendly heel strap makes for flip-flops you can run in.)
This look is inspired by: Season 1 Jane from Melrose Place, who once walked out of Michael's Malibu beach house donning a pair of high-waist white culottes from her eponymous fashion line (Jane Mancini Designs) with patterned summer sandals. I've been thinking about it ever since.
Key styling elements: The raw hem on the culottes feels very off-duty, especially when paired with chic tropical fashion flip-flops. Also, this beaded little bag has gone everywhere with me since I discovered her.
Best worn when: Sitting at an outside table, asking your waiter what the actual difference between Aperol and Campari is.
This look is inspired by: Wedding reception outfits after everyone's located the Havaianas in their swag bags and can finally start enjoying themselves.
Key styling elements: Ultra-versatile day-to-night pieces that you always pack in your carry-on because you can wear them 100 different ways. These polished flip-flops also look really excellent with wide-leg pants if you're going to do that head-to-toe-beige look.
Best worn when: You don't know how fancy the restaurant is.
This look is inspired by: Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas/all dads on vacation.
Key styling elements: Expertly paired prints, by way of this silky floral shirt and (slightly more subtle) Tropical Strap Havaianas. Also, apparently I really like wearing ankle-crop pants?
Best worn when: You realize that your calling in life is to move to Barcelona and become a meditation teacher, but for now, you just need to pop out to Whole Foods.
