Trust Me: Jeans, Skirts and Shorts Always Look More Expensive When Worn With These Flip-Flops
From playful jelly styles to elegant suede pairs, here are the seven flip-flop trends It girls will wear non-stop in summer 2026.
Although we’re set for a rainy week here in the UK, the good news is that the high-20°C temperatures we saw last week are set to return in mid-June. And with my personal goal of getting the absolute most out of summer this year, I’ve started to look at the flip-flop trends I’ll be adding to my capsule wardrobe. It’s rather hard to believe that flip-flops were considered tacky just a few years ago. But if you talk to any editor, influencer or fashion person in 2026, it’s clear that the days of flip-flops being relied upon solely as “beach shoes” are gone, and in their place lies a myriad of sleeker options that chic dressers rely on every summer.
Now, as a well-known minimalist, it should come as no surprise that I have a very pared-back aesthetic when it comes to my clothing; however, when it comes to footwear, I’m much more experimental, allowing my flip-flops, sandals and summer shoes to serve as the focal point of my otherwise basic outfits. And for 2026, specifically, there are a number of flip-flop trends that will elevate my outfits, but also feel classic enough to stand the test of time in my summer capsule. From the barely-there styles that those of us with a pared-back sense of style will love, to playful jelly iterations for the bolder dressers out there.
Keep scrolling to see and shop the seven flip-flop trends that every it girl will be wearing in 2026.
1. Jelly
Style Notes: Reminiscent of the playful sandal styles that dominated the late ‘90s as well as my childhood in the early 00’s, jelly flip-flops are back yet again for summer 2026. But now, they’re available in much more wearable, non-glittery iterations that lend themselves to easy, minimalist styling. My pair of choice? Ancient Greek Sandals' Saionaras, which arguably kicked off the resurgence of the jelly shoe trend in the first place.
Shop the Trend:
The jelly flip-flop that started it all.
These look way more expensive than their £20 price tag.
How cool are these?
Zara always stays on top of the latest trends.
2. Suede
Style Notes: Perfect for in or out of the office, a suede flip-flop will bring an instant sense of polish to your summer outfits. Not only is it an easy way to add some texture to your look, but flip-flops in this buttery soft fabric look expensive at even the most affordable price brackets.
Shop the Trend:
I'd style this with a black tank top and Bermuda shorts.
*Adds to basket.
Chocolate suede? Yes, please!
No one will guess these are from the high street.
3. Heeled
Style Notes: When a classic flat flip-flop feels too casual, fashion people turn to heeled iterations that feel slightly more formal. Whether it be for a wedding, summer garden party, or a dinner date, this '90s-inspired shoe style will add interest to even the most basic of outfits this season.
Shop the Trend:
Minimal, chic and easy to style.
Pair with everything from heavier denim to lightweight linen.
These are high up on my luxury wishlist.
The slingback detail will ensure all day support.
4. Two-Tone
Style Notes: If you’re unlikely to branch out from your neutral clothing this summer, then the two-tone flip-flop trend thats set to dominate this season is the one for you. Not only does it feel much more elevated than your typical one-coloured sandal for summer, but you can choose practically any shade pairing that you’d like, depending on your personal style and aesthetic.
Shop the Trend:
These won't stay in stock for long.
This bold green hue is calling to me.
Red and black flip-flops are having a moment.
I almost mistook these for designer.
5. Wedge
Style Notes: The classic heeled flip-flop is getting an elevated update in the form of wedge heels for summer 2026. Much more suited to dressier occasions than your flat flip-flops, I’ll be reaching for this Y2K-inspired pair when I want to dress up my capri pants or balloon trousers.
Shop the Trend:
These have such a '90s feel to them.
A very modern take on the classic wedge sandal.
Gone are the days when white sandals were considered "dated"/.
If you really want to make a statement, opt for this ultra-platform pair.
6. Snake-Print
Style Notes: Over the past 3 or 4 years, we’ve seen leopard, cow and even Dalmatian print take over the footwear market. However, for 2026, fashion people have their eyes set on a pattern that both minimalists and maximalists can get behind—snake print flip-flops. Bold enough to add interest to a basic summer outfit, but with a colour palette that still remains muted and wearable, I already have my eyes on quite a few pairs.
Shop the Trend:
'd style these with a black linen co-ord and leather woven tote.
I just know that these will sell out fast.
Aeyde never disappoints me.
The perfect summer event heel.
7. Minimal
Style Notes: Timeless, easy to style and effortlessly polished, you cannot go wrong with investing in a pair of classic leather flip-flops that you’ll keep in your summer capsule for many years to come. And the best part? This inherently elegant sandal style looks expensive at any and every price point, meaning there’s something to suit all budgets this season.
Shop the Trend:
An investment pair you'll reach for every summer.
These are a bestseller for good reason.
These will go with everything.
This brown pair will go well with white, cream and beige hues.
