Summer 2025 style shocker: Flip-flops replace heels as must-have shoe
Flip-flops are the trend of the season (collage: rbc-ukraine)
The summer of 2025 sets new rules, and many fashion lovers have given up their usual heels in favor of comfortable and stylish flip-flops. This simple and lightweight footwear has become a real hit of the season, combining comfort with trendy design. Here's why flip-flops became so popular in the summer of 2025, along with some styling tips.
What are flip-flops?
Flip-flops are a type of lightweight open footwear, held on the foot by a thin strap between the big toe and the second toe. They usually have a flat sole and a minimalist design.
They are also known as thongs, slides, or beach sandals. In their basic version, they're very simple shoes, but modern fashion has turned them into a real fashion element.
When flip-flops appeared
The origins of this footwear trace back to ancient Egypt, China, and Japan.
In their modern form, flip-flops became popular after World War II, when American soldiers brought them from Asia.
They became widely worn in the 60s-70s as beach footwear because they are available, comfortable, and low-maintenance.
Flip-flops at the peak of popularity (photo: instagram.com/erinoffduty)
Why flip-flops are the trend of summer 2025
In 2025, flip-flops unexpectedly became a hot trend that entered street style, fashion shoots, and even offices. The reasons for their popularity include:
- Comfort fashion. In hot summer weather, few want to wear sneakers or heels
- Retro vibes. The comeback of 90s and 2000s aesthetics, when flip-flops symbolized simplicity and casual style
- New interpretations. Designers offered flip-flops with heels, square toes, platforms, in leather or metallics, making them stylish and not just functional
- Versatility. They're now worn not only on the beach but also with skirts, dresses, and blazers, becoming part of the everyday summer wardrobe
Flip-flops in summer trends (photo: instagram.com/erinoffduty)
How to style flip-flops: 4 trendy summer ideas
Flip-flops have long moved beyond beach aesthetics and become part of everyday and even fashion-forward looks. To make them appear stylish, it's important to combine them correctly. Here are a few trendy options:
Midi skirt
This fashionable length and light silhouette pair perfectly with simple flip-flops. Choose a linen, satin, or denim skirt and add a basic T-shirt or top. Finish with a small bag, and the look is ready.
Flip-flops and a midi skirt (photo: instagram.com/erinoffduty)
Beach dress
This one's simple: flip-flops are the perfect footwear for a sheer, airy summer dress. These could be backless dresses, halter styles, or tunics. The look is not only comfortable but also casual and stylish.
Flip-flops and a beach dress (photo: instagram.com/erinoffduty)
Skort
The skirt-shorts hybrid creates a playful, dynamic outfit. Combined with flip-flops (especially leather ones or with a micro-platform), it looks modern and bold. Add a crop top or oversized shirt to get a street-style look inspired by Scandinavian influencers.
Flip-flops and a skort (photo: instagram.com/erinoffduty)
Long skirt + striped shirt
This combo works well in casual, countryside, or boho style. It is everything you need for a laid-back summer day: natural fabrics, loose cuts, and comfortable shoes. The look feels cozy yet full of character.
Flip-flops can be worn with skirts and shirts (photo: instagram.com/erinoffduty)
Tip
To make flip-flops look trendy, choose:
- Models with wide or leather straps
- Platform versions or soft square toes
- Trendy colors: black, metallic, white, chocolate, pastel
Trendy flip-flops for summer 2025 (photo: instagram.com/erinoffduty)
You may be interested in:
- Andre Tan named 5 shades that visually rejuvenate
- How to wear a trench in fall 2025 to avoid looking basic
