After months of treacherous snow storms and frigid temperatures, we no longer have to pretend that summer is on its way. With tomorrow marking the first official day of summer, it is past time to swap out chunky knit sweaters and Ugg boots for lighter layers and breezy sandals.
As temperatures rise, my attention is fully directed on obtaining wardrobe essentials for summer. At the top of my list are flip flops. When I say flip flops, I don’t mean the inexpensive ones that can be purchased at the beach for less than five bucks. While these flip flops are ideal when worn to the beach, they are not fashionably acceptable. In choosing the quintessential flip flop, I want something that is fashionable and will last for more than one season.
When chosen wisely, flip flops are the ultimate fashion statement. Whether worn with a pair of denim cutoff shorts or a floral printed maxi dress, these summer sandals are not to be overlooked. A pair of flip flops can say a lot about one’s personality and style. With this summer trend, preppy, eclectic, and bohemian are all in the mix.
This profile on flip flops is not meant to be budget friendly. Featured below are the most durable and thoughtfully printed flips flops this season.
Tory Burch, renowned for her signature Reva flats, has designed a collection chock-full of noteworthy designs. From floral and animal prints to polka dots, Tory has you covered. I absolutely love the color schemes found in these flip flops – each pair would look splendid when paired with the right outfit. Whether covered in cool blues and violets or earthy shades of beige, red, and black, each pair is artistically crafted to convey a certain mood. The tiny Tory Burch metal plated logo also adds the cool sophistication found in her leather flats. The combination of fun prints and durability places these flip flops on my “I want/have to have now” list for the summer.
As with their classic trench coats, Burberry manages to keep it sophisticated with these jelly flip flops. Coming in either see through or slick black jelly, both options shown above are the definition of effortless chic. While these flip flops are very minimalist at first glance, their inner soles are covered in a subdued plaid pattern with hearts. The really nice thing about jelly flip flops is that they can easily be cleaned. For those with a taste for high end British fashion, these flip flops by Burberry are perfect.
For a more feminine and festive flip flop, I suggest these adorably ruffle clad ones by Diane von Furstenberg. Not only are they day appropriate, but they are also perfectly acceptable for a night out. The combination of ruffles and sweetly colored lips is very reminiscent of Furstenberg’s ready-to-wear runway collections and as a result absolutely irresistible. These are definitely made for girls looking for an updated version of the classic spongy flip flop. While I love all three versions, I have to say that my favorite is the black. I can just imagine these being worn with a black LBD and a matching red or pink pedicure. With hot summer temperatures, they would be a great alternative to the classic black ballet flat.
The great thing about Marc Jacobs is that I can always count on him to come out with designs that are eclectic and innovative. Any of the three flip flops featured above would make a great statement when paired with denim shorts and a classic tee. In bright shades of blue and pink, they would also add a pop of color. For a more serious/edgy option, the black flip flop with red strap and pirate illustration is anything but boring. While these flip flops by Marc Jacobs may not be for everyone, those with an artistic outlook would definitely find them visually appealing.
As a devout follower to the Brazilian brand Havaianas, I can truly say that they are the most comfortable flip flops on the market. When walking in Havaianas, your feet practically bounce off the cushiony sole. Not only are they moderately priced, but they are also super durable and have a long lifespan. Another thing that I love about this Brazil brand is their endless variety of designs and styles. From neon and metallic colored flip flops to ones with styles labeled as “Summer,” “Surf Girl,” and “Fun,” you cannot wrong. In some cases, you even have the option of choosing between a slim and regular strap. Along with the Tory Burch flip flops, these are extremely conventional and can dress up or dress down any outfit. While Havaianas appear to be becoming the next North Face in terms of popularity (now sold virtually everywhere) they are still my favorite.
One of the “Fun” series of designs, this pair of Havaianas is exploding with color and intricate details. As if that wasn’t enough, these even glow in the dark!
Part of the “Top Mix” series, I really like how the purple is combined with the neon orange and green. The play of colors is perfect for summer. As Havaianas states on their website, why settle with one color when you can have three!
Could this “Surf Girl” flip flop be any cuter? With shades of pink, purple, and pale blue these are perfect for girly girls.
Another cute option from Havaianas collection. The pastel colored butterflies set against the whiteness of the flip flop creates for a clean summer ready look.
A touch of metallic in the slim strap and swirly detail really vamps up the elaborateness of this flip flop.
