This is the season of bizarre flip-flops.

      There's nothing quite as unusual as a simple pair of flip-flops. Why? Because you're effectively wearing thin strips of fabric between your toes. While you're revealing some skin, it doesn't compare to donning a dress that shows a hint of neckline or shorts that barely cover your upper thighs. Exposing all your toes is, in fact, even more taboo, especially in a place like New York, where the mere act of wearing flip-flops is frequently debated. The city's sidewalks have experienced a lot, and slipping on a pair of flimsy sandals provides minimal protection from the environment.

      However, this was inevitable. After a few years of Margiela tabis becoming mainstream, the trend of showcasing toes was bound to take off. At the spring/summer 2025 fashion shows, brands like Tory Burch unveiled peep-toe pumps designed with small cutouts to explicitly reveal toes, suggesting an untapped style opportunity. Consequently, flip-flops started to gain popularity—not only the classic Havaianas (which remain highly sought after, particularly when styled in a nearly ironic way with upscale outfits, reminiscent of the Olsen twins). Nowadays, you'll spot flip-flops with "sublime" printed on the straps, some crafted from light blue jelly-like rubber, and many featuring playful little heels or cheeky PVC straps. Flip-flops are no longer just casual footwear; they’ve transformed into a means of enhancing your summer aesthetic.

      With that in mind, there are numerous ways to join in on the trend this season. Below, you’ll find our guide to choosing the right stylish flip-flop for you.

      If You Loved Ryan Gosling’s "Sublime" Line in the Barbie Movie

      One of Tory Burch's cherished words is "sublime," which she chose to embroider on the nylon straps of her aptly named flip-flops. The word is accompanied by illustrations of swimmers appearing to travel from your feet to your ankles. Additionally, the flip-flops are enhanced with stylish wedges, making them unlike any other sandals available. They might just be the only flip-flops that make people second-guess and ask, "What does that say?"

      **Tory Burch**

      Sublime Wedge Flip-Flop

      If Your Go-To Party Drink Is a Jello Shot

      How much jelly is too much jelly? According to the boho revival, there’s no such thing. Chloé has reimagined flip-flops as thong sandals crafted from jelly-like rubber with shell-shaped heels. They evoke what a modern mermaid might wear if she were to magically walk on land for a day, perfectly paired with a flowing chiffon top featuring billowing sleeves.

      If You Like to Stir Things Up

      When The Row introduced its Dune flip-flops, they went viral due to their steep price tag (over $690). But where else can you find a product that guarantees both exquisite craftsmanship and a good conversation starter?

      **The Row**

      Dune Cotton Flat Thong Sandals

      If You Believe Brat Summer Never Ends

      Grommets and studs have become a hallmark of Charli XCX’s style. Her disheveled, imperfect aesthetic is the closest we’ve got to anything that feels remotely punk in 2025. However, flip-flops are typically associated with tourists rather than Brat culture—until Mango debuted a pair adorned with embellishments reminiscent of those found at a sold-out Charli concert.

      **Mango**

      Suede Sandals With Eyelet Straps

      …and If Brat Green Remains Your Favorite Shade

      Flip-flops don’t have to stick to neutral colors. They can also evoke a cozy feel or come in green and fuzzy designs. When considering adding texture to your ensemble, shoes may not be the first thought that crosses your mind, but they certainly could be—and they absolutely should be!

      **Reformation**

      Jessie Thong Sandal

      If You Want to Highlight Your Summer Pedicure

      Ancient Greek Sandals has a talent for crafting shoes that perfectly capture the spirit of a dreamy holiday. Just looking at the Saionara jelly PVC flip-flops transports me to a sandy beach with the salty ocean breeze of Milos, Greece. These flip-flops will also add a vibrant splash of ocean blue to any outfit and draw attention to a fresh pedicure you want everyone to admire.

      **Ancient Greek Sandals**

      Saionara Jelly PVC Flip Flops

      If You Want to Tie the Knot

      Tying the knot doesn’t necessarily mean matrimony. It can simply refer to wearing a pair of knotted Emme Parsons Knot Pool Slides. (Though we’d understand if you decided to fully commit to these and forgo all your other summer sandals.)

      **Emme Parsons**

      Knot Pool Slides