It's Official: This Basic, Anti-Trend Sandal Is the Key to Looking Effortlessly Cool This Summer

Similar to "dad" sandals, Birkenstocks and Crocs, flip-flops are one of the previously sidelined summer shoes that have experienced a high-fashion makeover over the last year. Long disregarded by fashion-lovers due to their old-school aesthetic or casual appearance, one-by-one these sandal styles have been welcomed in by the world's most stylish and in turn seen a dramatic rise to social-media fame.

@brittanybathgate wearing Sleeper flip flops with black linen trousers

(Image credit: @brittanybathgate)

While they never had the overtly uncool associations of velcro sandals (oh, how times have changed), for a long time, flip-flops were not considered a shoe worthy of any context other than the beach. That is, until the likes of The Row had their say, creating an oh-so-elegant iteration in luxe leather. Of course, leather sandals are hardly a revelation, however, this 2024 trend uniquely combines the nonchalant appeal of flip-flops with the elevating potential of a classic leather shoe. The dream.

@bubblyaquarius wearing leather flip-flops and a white dress

(Image credit: @bubblyaquarius)

In summary? Leather flip-flops are a shoe staple that will look good with everything you own—be it jeans and a tee, a maxi dress, shorts or tracksuit bottoms. It will also look just as good in the city as it will on your summer hols. Scroll down to see how the fashion crowd are styling theirs and see our edit of the best available to buy right now.

@smythsisters wearing trousers, tank and leather flip flops

(Image credit: @smythsisters)

Such a cool, laidback holiday vibe.

@champagnemani wearing a cord necklace with a white dress

(Image credit: @champagnemani)

The bold shape of these thicker strap flip-flops creates such a great contrast with the flowing white dress—a summer staple.

@taffymsipa wearing leather flip flops with linen trousers and a white t-shirt

(Image credit: @taffymsipa)

I love how Taffy has made her flip-flops work in this understatedly elevated look for city wear.

@monikh wearing leather flip-flops with a long skirt and trench

(Image credit: @monikh)

As Monikh proves, leather flip-flops can work even on the days that call for more layers.

@lucywilliams02 wearing flip flops with white trousers

(Image credit: @lucywilliams02)

Booking my next holiday ASAP.

Shop Elevated, Leather Flip-Flops:

This piece was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Freelance Fashion Editor

Jess Kelham-Hohler is a freelance writer, editor and content strategist. She has been a contributor for Who What Wear UK since 2023. Currently based in London following six years in Washington D.C. and New York, she was previously the Digital Editor for Soho House & Co, an international group of private members’ clubs for creatives. She has interviewed a range of artists, creators and more, including Alighieri founder Rosh Mahtani, photographer Misan Harriman and fashion editor Lindsay Peoples Wagner. Today, she writes primarily about fashion, travel and culture for various publications, and has worked as a copywriter and content strategist for brands such as Belstaff, Olivela and Equinox.