It Can't Be Only Me: Those with Refined Taste Are Choosing These Anti-Trend Sandals Over Flats

      Throughout the year, flats have been dominating the shoe scene, surpassing even the most reliable slingbacks, pumps, and heeled boots in our wardrobes. The excitement around them shows no signs of waning, but there’s one particular style of heel that’s encouraging even the most devoted flat enthusiasts to consider a little elevation. Heeled flip-flops are swiftly becoming the leading sandal trend anticipated to characterize summer 2025, and the stylish outfits we're observing on fashion-forward individuals confirm that this trend is both fashionable and practical. Hailey Bieber has paired them with culottes and kick-flare pants, and other fashion aficionados are styling them alongside jeans, dresses, and lace-trimmed skirts. If that doesn’t demonstrate their versatility, I’m not sure what will. Once you view the upcoming outfit inspirations, you'll see that these shoes are far less contentious and much more refined than previously thought. Below, discover how fashion influencers are integrating their heeled flip-flops this summer, and shop the best styles along the way.

      Style Insights: Thong sandals with a lace-trimmed skirt and a simple top create a laid-back, effortless ensemble that still manages to look luxurious.

      **Open Edit**

      Tori Kitten Heel Sandal

      I've lost count of the miles I’ve walked in these, and I haven’t experienced any blisters or discomfort.

      **Simon Miller**

      Beep Thong Sandal

      Just by observing the slanted and thicker heel design, I can tell these will be comfortable and stable for walking.

      Style Insights: This is another interpretation of the popular outfit combination. To pull it off effectively, match your sandal color with your skirt.

      **Miu Miu**

      Leather Thong Sandals

      Straight from the runway of Miu Miu.

      **Jeffrey Campbell**

      Honey-Bun Sandal

      I'm a fan of this peep-toe design.

      Style Insights: Although flip-flops may not be the typical choice to wear with tailored pants, as Rosie Huntington-Whiteley demonstrates, that’s exactly why they work so well.

      The thicker straps enhance their premium appearance.

      Style Insights: White flip-flops may spark debate, but they're currently favored by the most stylish individuals.

      **Marc Fisher LTD**

      Amelea Flip Flop

      I've always been satisfied with the quality of this brand's footwear.

      Comfortable heel height? Yes. Secure strap design? Yes. Affordable price? Yes.

      Style Insights: Currently, all the leading style influencers I know are pairing their blue jeans with flip-flops, and opting for heeled sandals elevates the look just a notch.

      **A.Emery**

      Hardie Leather Thong Sandals

      My admiration for A.Emery sandals knows no limits.

      **TOTEME**

      Kitten Heel Flip Flop

      Hailey Bieber’s top choice.

      Style Insights: My preferred way to style these minimalist sandals is to feature them against an all-cream outfit, incorporating only the sandals and one black accessory for contrast.

      **Loeffler Randall**

      Odessa Sandal

      This silver detailing makes every ensemble feel more special.

      **Madewell**

      Tamia Heeled Thong Sandals

      How are these still available?

      Style Insights: These are perfect for vacation packing as they pair well with everything from casual outfits to elegant dinner dresses.

      **Gianvito Rossi**

      Suede Thong Sandals

      These would be wonderful for summer weddings—both attractive and suitable for dancing.

      Style Insights: Even paired with a sophisticated pantsuit, they add a trendy touch that revitalizes all your office wear.

      **Toteme**

      Suede Thong Sandals

      I didn’t think they could look any more luxurious, but the brown suede elevates them further.

      **Tony Bianco**

      Topaz Thong Heels

      Style Insights: The minimalist design of these sandals makes them an ideal foundation for a bold piece, like a patterned statement dress.

      **Proenza Schouler**

      Cable Thong Sandal

      In my experience, Proenza Schouler offers some of the most comfortable heeled sandals.

      **Jeffrey Campbell**

      Preciosa Sandals

      Style Insights: Feeling like your jeans are boring? A pair of heeled flip-flops will easily elevate any jeans-and-t-shirt outfit from ordinary to trendy, I guarantee it.

      **Stuart Weitzman**

      Rio Kitten Heel Sandal

      Welcome your new everyday pair.

      **Aeyde**

      Daphne Nappa Leather Port Sandals

      I appreciate a good contrast stitching detail.