Appropriately, Elizabeth Olsen recently donned the much-discussed The Row sandals that have sparked controversy.
Whether by design or coincidence, The Row has cultivated a trend of reinterpreting classic shoe styles with a modern flair—accompanied by a nearly $1,000 price tag. Despite the debate surrounding these footwear items, they consistently sell out quickly and gain viral attention. Last summer, the brand introduced the $890 Mara Flats, those jelly shoes that demonstrated their potential for sophistication. This spring (and upcoming summer), the hotly debated style that is flying off the shelves is the Dune Flip-Flops.
These flat sandals come with wide grosgrain straps and rubber soles, and even without any leather in their construction, they are priced at $690, which has sparked some controversy. Recently, a group of New York Times editors shared their varying opinions on the shoes. Nevertheless, similar to all of The Row's footwear, they represent the highest quality available in their category, and they are disappearing from stores fast.
The flip-flops—available in solid black, red soles with black straps, and nude soles with black straps—have garnered a notable fan base among celebrities. Elizabeth Olsen, the sister of The Row's creative directors Ashley and Mary-Kate Olsen, recently sported the nude pair in Los Angeles paired with an all-black ensemble. She looked quite fashionable, and I understand the allure of these minimalist sandals. Fashionable flip-flops have definitely become a trend in 2025, and The Row has dominated the scene with its Dune sandals.
Continue scrolling to explore options for yourself, and if you're not inclined to invest hundreds in rubber flip-flops, I've identified some excellent alternatives that you should check out. Details are provided below.
(Image credit: affinitypicture/Backgrid)
On Elizabeth Olsen: Michael Kors Nolita Large Pebbled Leather Hobo Shoulder Bag ($398); The Row Dune Flip Flops ($690)
**Shop the Shoes**
The Row
Dune Flip Flops in Iron Grey
The Row
Dune Flip Flops in Scarlet
The Row
Dune Classic Flip Flop Sandals in Black
**Shop Similar Flip-Flops**
Free People
Sona Thong Sandals
Havaianas
Slim Square Pop Up Logo Flip Flops
ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS
Saionara Jelly PVC Flip Flops
Madewell
Greene Flip Flops
Reformation
Onyx Thong Sandals
Ipanema
Anat Connect Fem Flip Flops
STAUD
Freja Leather Flip Flops
A.EMERY
Kinto Textured-Leather Flip Flops
Other articles
Check out these 31 stylish and effortless pieces that are ideal for your upcoming summer getaway.
Here are the top vacation items from Diane von Furstenberg for both minimalists and maximalists.
My Cycling Instructor and I Evaluated 12 "Sweat-Proof" Beauty Products—Only These Made the Cut.
They endured consecutive intense workout sessions and scorching days at the beach.
Appropriately, Elizabeth Olsen recently donned the much-discussed The Row sandals that have sparked controversy.
No sandal season is complete without a divisive pair from The Row. Check out the trendsetting style for summer 2025, showcased by Elizabeth Olsen.