Online Reporter
Fashion 263 Correspondent
It’s open-toe season, and the most in-vogue shoe for the warmer weather is as simple as they come — the humble flip-flop.
From flats to midi lengths as well as platform versions, these thong sandals have already made their mark in the celeb style world during summer in the northern hemisphere.
From Kylie Jenner to Jennifer Aniston, Sofia Richie Grainge and Gwyneth Paltrow, some of Hollywood’s biggest stars have been spotted rocking flip-flops.
And while we have all come to know and love the low-key shoe for its simplicity and ease, the sandal is no longer limited to the house, the beach, the pool or for running errands.
Instead, in a move reminiscent of the 1990s, it has once again made its way into the world of high fashion and has recently been dominating social media feeds.
From Italy to New York, they have been hitting the streets, projecting a certain nonchalant coolness during hot summer days.
As someone born more than three decades ago, I have witnessed how fashion trends are recycled over the decades.
In my tween years, I owned a pair of platform flip flops (yes, those popularised by the Spice Girls).
But this summer, I will be looking for a flat leather pair, and I am thrilled about styling it in different ways.
Another appealing reason for the flip-flop’s revival is that in modern fashion, the shoe is often rooted in sustainability as brands are now producing them using recycled rubber, biodegradable materials, and eco-friendly innovations, making them aligned with the values of a conscious generation.
This is a massive step in the right direction for the fashion industry, which has been accused of various environmental infringements. The enduring appeal of flip-flops in modern fashion.
Flip-flops have cemented their place as a modern fashion staple, after being relegated to outdoor settings in previous years. Much of its appeal stems from the shoe’s unique blend of comfort, versatility, and cultural symbolism.
At its essence, they exude a relaxed, carefree energy that resonates with today’s preference for minimalism and comfort-driven dressing.
They are also versatile and can be worn with different types of garments during the warmer months, from shorts to jeans and sundresses.
They are also affordable everyday essentials which can be found at a multitude of retail outlets.
But even luxury brands like Chanel, Gucci and Balenciaga have reimagined them as premium statement pieces, making them accessible yet aspirational.
How to style flip flops
There are many variations of the shoe available to suit different preferences, from different heel heights to fun metallic colours and even ones with a square-toe silhouette. For those looking to incorporate them into their summer wardrobe, here are some tips on how to style them.
Laid-back cool girl
If you are looking for an easy and polished look, opt to wear your flip flops with straight-leg jeans, a crisp white-tshirt and an oversized blazer.
Get colourful
Choose flip flops in bright summer shades like yellow and orange instead of ordinary ones. This is a fun and easy way to add some colour to your wardrobe but still remaining cool and comfortable.
Fun nights out
Flip flops are no longer just for the day time. By choosing metallic flip flops, ones with embellishments or jello versions of the sandal, you can be comfortable yet stylish during a night out.
Meanwhile, on to clothes, every fashion season has its go-to pieces: trench coats, little black boots, great jeans.
This spring and summer, though, many fashion buffs are giving the button-down shirt a fresh new look.
What used to be a borrowed-from-the-boys staple is now the base for our most creative summer outfits.
Why the sudden interest?
Edited reports that global searches for “oversized shirt” and “blue button-down” are up more than 30 percent this year.
It’s one piece that can go from a beach cover-up to a boardroom to a rooftop sundowner without you having to change your shoes.
We’re moving past the usual “capsule” wardrobe staples. A classic trench is still great for a cool Joburg morning, but this summer is all about shirts that work for anything: brunch, the office or last-minute drinks.
Even minimalist bags, stylish flats and dressier pieces are showing up in our daytime outfits.
Africans are also changing things up each season.
More people are clearing out clothes they don’t wear and focusing on making the most of their favourite basics, instead of buying a whole new wardrobe.
True blues are the season’s
MVP You probably have a crisp white shirt in your closet. This summer, though, designers like The Row and Filippa K are all about blue, thinking every shade from cobalt to cerulean.
These shirts might remind you of office wear, but they feel fun and fresh, especially with summer fabrics.
Even die-hard neutral lovers are saying yes.
Tucked into tailored trousers: Nothing is easier than a blue shirt tucked into black pants.
Wear classic loafers now and switch to thong sandals come December.
Add a slim belt and small silver hoops to polish an easy commute-to-cocktail look for Sandton or Seapoint.
Open over white jeans and a tank: A head-to-toe white look screams summer.
Layer a bright blue shirt over a ribbed tank, push up the sleeves, and finish with kitten-heel sandals and a woven basket bag. It’s minimal effort, high impact, and perfectly suited to sticky afternoons.
Oversized and effortless: Oversized shirts one or two sizes up are dominating street style from Braamfontein to Bree Street.
Pair with skinny jeans or fitted trousers to balance the volume. Or throw over a slip dress for a brunch-ready, sun-safe layer.
The key is proportion; if the top is slouchy, the bottom should give you shape. — Fashionewsiol.co.za
