The Simple Jeans-and-Shoe Formula Fashion Insiders Swear By in Summer

In the summer months, when the sun is out and the days are busy, it's important to have a roster of easy outfit formulas you can rely on. Simple pairings are often the most effective, whether it's a lightweight linen dress and strappy sandals, a matching shirt-and-shorts set or the classic jeans and T-shirt combo. All of the above are also more likely to stand the test of time than a fussy ensemble featuring complicated silhouettes and clashing colours—unless you're a proud maximalist, of course.

But for all the minimalists among us, you'll know the excitement of discovering an effortless styling idea to add to your arsenal. And there's one union, in particular, that's risen the ranks and seems to appear every time I visit my Instagram feed. I'm talking about jeans and flip-flops.

I know, I know; flip-flops don't exactly scream 'fashion'. But the humble beach shoe has experienced quite the renaissance over the past couple of years, mostly due to the popularity of The Row's Ginza sandal. This platform silhouette features the characteristic thong detailing, elevated with thicker-than-usual straps and a smooth leather finish. The Olsen twins' covetable creation was the sandal of summer 2021, kicking off what can only be described as an obsession—now, you'll struggle to find a footwear brand that hasn't released its own version of the 'chic flip-flop'.

And in truth, there's no better sandal to make your beloved denim feel summer-appropriate. The two work in tandem to create a cool, laid-back vibe that's bang-on-brand for the warmer months. Scroll on to see five on-point outfits that demonstrate exactly what I mean.

1. Blazer + Straight-Leg Jeans + Low-Heel Flip-Flops

Style Notes: For a dressier flip-flop look, opt for a low-heeled design and add a blazer into the mix for good measure. Ready for whatever your evening has in store.

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2. Floral Blouse + Blue Jeans + Chunky Flip-Flops

Style Notes: A billowy floral blouse is a warm-weather essential; styled with this and platform flip-flops, your denim will feel like it was made for the summer months.

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3. Bardot Top + Grey Jeans + Heeled Flip-Flops

Style Notes: Heeled flip-flops are the ultimate comfortable night-out shoe. Stick to a monochrome palette for an elegant result, perhaps with a fun splash of colour in your accessories.

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4. Baby Tee + Baggy Jeans + Pastel Flip-Flops

Style Notes: If you feel like boxy T-shirts don't suit you, consider a more fitted 'baby tee'—the shrunken shape works especially well with baggy jeans. Add a pair of colourful flip-flops that peek out when you walk.

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5. Relaxed Shirt + Ecru Jeans + Flat Flip-Flops

Style Notes: When it's warm out, swap your blue jeans for ecru denim. Then, tuck in a light-coloured shirt and complete the easy ensemble with a pair of strappy black sandals.

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Next: How to Build a Capsule Wardrobe With 8 Pieces You'll Wear Forever