Flip-flops weren’t on my bingo card this year.
No, really. For as long as I’ve worked in the menswear space – the last six years and counting – they’ve been a fashion faux pas reserved for Brits abroad and dads walking the dog.
But this year, they’ve upped their game and are set to be the shoe of the summer.
There’s one moment which seemingly changed everything – and we have menswear king Jonathan Bailey to thank. He wore a pair of flip-flops for the London photocall for his latest film Jurassic World: Rebirth, which he paired with a simple grey jumper and straight leg jeans for a very normcore Noughties look.
Even though his entire look was by The Row, the NY-based luxury label started by the Olsen twins, which has become a fixture on every fashion insider’s wishlist, his bare feet still managed to divide the internet.
But, as they say, there’s no such thing as bad publicity, and ever since letting his dogs out on the red carpet, the flip-flop has been rising in popularity.
We’ve seen Bradley Cooper wearing them in NYC as well as countless guys on TikTok showing us just how chic the thong sandal can be when worn with flowy trousers or straight leg jeans – if you want some inspo on how to wear them, influencers @andrewgeorgiades and @hesselhersmis are a good place to start.
Though The Row’s flip-flops would set you back over £600 (gulp), there are loads of other options which do the same job for a much more reasonable price.
You could go for Havaianas’ iconic rubber design for laid-back casual ‘fits, a classic leather take by Russell & Bromley when you’re making an effort or even Brunello Cucinelli’s pool-ready riff, which will become your new suitcase essential.
Whichever you pick, there’s some essential pre-game to be done: obviously, if you’re planning to display them in public, your feet must be well-groomed.
The state of your feet speaks volumes, so whenever you’re thinking of baring them to the world, you should book a pedicure in or do a DIY job at home, in which case you’ll need toe clippers and a foot peel, which takes seven days to remove all the dry skin and calluses).
Then, you’ll be able to confidently wear any of my top picks below.
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Frescobol Carioca Fabio Flip Flops
Frescobol Carioca is a London-based resortwear label which takes inspiration from Brazil, so the collections are full of lively prints, patterns and colour. Now, flip-flops have been given the Carioca treatment with a fun, stripy sole. Perfect for poolside relaxing or days at the beach.
Buy now £55.00, Frescobol Carioca
Havaianas Top Flip in Black
When you think of flip-flops, chances are the first brand that comes to mind is Havaianas. Since they’re rubber, they’re usually best for casual holiday outfits whenever a pool or beach is on the cards. And, if you go with the triple black, you know it’s going to work with pretty much everything else in your suitcase.
Buy now £23.00, Schuh
Massimo Dutti Leather sandals with toe divider
Leather flip flops feel a little smarter – with the right trousers (relaxed, flowy, tailored) you could even make them work for a dinner reservation. Considering they’re made using genuine leather, Massimo Dutti’s are available at a great price.
Buy now £99.95, Massimo Dutti
Brunello Cucinelli Pool Grossgrain Flip Flops
If you want to splash out on your poolside attire (sorry…), Brunello Cucinelli’s flip-flops are the answer. The luxury designer is known for its minimal collections which are handmade by expert craftsmen in the brand’s home country, Italy. These flip-flops are no exception.
Buy now £290.00, Mr. Porter
MR P. Fede Suede Sandals
Suede is a timeless fabric which will look just as good in five years as it does now – in fact, since it develops a patina over time, it might even look better after a few wears. So, for an investment you’ll wear for many summers to come, go for Mr P.’s Fede sandals.
Buy now £195.00, Mr. Porter
Cos Lightweight EVA Flip Flops
Though I wouldn’t always suggest a neon bright pair of flip-flops, they certainly have a time and place. Party holidays. Pool villa stays. Or even if you want to make it known you’re on board with the trend when you’re walking around London. If any of the above apply, Cos have the perfect pair.
Buy now £26.00, Cos
Russell & Bromley Claremont Toe Post Sandal
You can always count on Russell & Bromley for the classics, flip-flops, included. These, in particular, are a smart brown leather design which would look best with loose off white jeans.
Buy now £125.00, Russell & Bromley
Ancient Greek Sandals Solon
As you might guess, Ancient Greek Sandals collections are inspired by traditional Grecian shoes, and they’re all handmade by artisans on the brand’s home turf, Greece. If you’re not into navy, there are three other colours to choose from – black, grey and tan.
Buy now £185.00, Ancient Greek Sandals
Ugg Men's Seaside Ii Flip Flop
Though Ugg may be better known for boots and slides, the brand’s flip-flops are just as worth a peek. These have padded leather straps and a cushioned sole as well as a cushy rubber outsole for maximum comfort. Bodega run shoes sorted.
Buy now £80.00, Ugg
Hoka Ora Recovery Flip 2
Calling all gorpcore kings! Hoka’s Recovery Flip 2 is a technical take on the classic thong sandal silhouette. It’s built for stability and has an XL chunky cushioned sole which is perfect if you’re recovering after a day hiking on the trails.
Buy now £50.00, Hoka
