Chalk it up to its sing-songy moniker or connotations with beach-going men in backward caps and Havianas. Whatever the reference, flip flops have garnered a polarizing reputation in recent decades and of late have become one of the frequently-discussed "ugly" footwear choices. However, despite any possible negative sentiments you may feel toward this simple sandal, one thing is certain: the flip flop trend is making a comeback this spring and the brands endorsing it are designing some seriously chic iterations. One such label is New York-based Staud — a cult favorite among fashion lovers both in the industry and outside of it.
"I have found there are two very distinct groups of people in this world — those who hate the flip flop and those who love them," Designer Sarah Staudinger tells TZR. "I definitely belong to the latter, and I have made it my mission to convert the other half." For spring, she introduced the Rio sandals below, which come in a range of versatile colorways like black, white, red, and beige. They feel like a cool, grownup version of your childhood beach flip-flops thanks to the square toe and leather strap. "For our first rendition of the flip flop, I wanted to keep it as classic and traditional as possible but with a subtle update," Staudinger continues. "I say first because there are many more to come. Trust me, my love affair with the flip flop is far from over."
If you're unsure of how to wear the new take on the simple sandal, Staudinger recommends styling them with a monochromatic wide-leg pantsuit or Staud's Zissou Jumpsuit. For more ideas on how to elevate flip flops this spring, check out the stylish snaps ahead and shop the season's most covetable designer flip flops; you (and your feet) will be grateful you did.
For a polished weekend outfit, accessorize a button-down shirt and printed midi skirt with a pair of low-key flip flops. Finish off the look with a playful accessory, like a pair of brightly-colored sunglasses and a cool bag.
A sophisticated spring suit (as seen on Tibi's Spring/Summer 2019 runway) is solidified with the addition of a sleek flip flop.
If you're going for a denim-on-denim look, add pops of color to help bring it to life like vibrant flip flops, a saturated bag, and statement sunglasses.
Spring is a great time to experiment with a colorful monochrome look; if you're stuck on the accessories, reach for a pair of neutral flip flops for an effortless finish and toss in a few bolder items like a woven bag and seashell-embellished piece of jewelry.
The easiest way to make flip-flops not look sloppy is by styling them with cool, elevated separates like a printed button down and slouchy slacks. Don't forget the structured bag!
A pretty spring dress should, arguably, be in every woman's wardrobe. Take a cue from Molly Goddard's Spring/Summer 2019 ruwnay and toss it on with some cute flip flops and you're ready to go in under 30 seconds.
Mixing prints is a styling trick worth experimenting with and what better way to complete the look than with a subtle pair of flip flops? As illustrated above, the combination is quite appealing.
Veronika Heilbrunner is a master at translating casual footwear to a dressier context, as seen above in her ultra-slick all-black look she wore during fashion week.
