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The flip-flop trend, once exclusively linked to holiday capsule wardrobes and poolside dwelling, has over recent years become an unlikely staple for fashion insiders. As we enter the summer of 2026, this familiar trend is only gaining more traction.
Shop 2026 flip-flop trends
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At first glance, the flip-flop may appear to be a casual fashion staple, but they’ve also made their mark on the recent catwalks and in the collections of leading brands. This season, some of the most prestigious fashion houses – think Chloé, Balenciaga, Bottega Veneta, Burberry and Dries Van Noten – have all re-imagined this once humble, thong sandal.
Whether you’re prepping your next capsule holiday wardrobe, or looking for the perfect sandals for city styling this spring summer. Below, shop the four summer Flip-flop trends seen on the catwalks.
Kitten heels
Flip-flops take on couture accents... and height. Under the influence of Chloé, the sandal is gaining nobility with variations that are as sophisticated as they are playful. Crafted in a variety of sleek leathers, suedes and jellies the kitten heeled flip-flop is tailor-made for summer styling. High-street brands including Massimo Dutti have followed suit, and have a current collection boasting multiple kitten heel flip-flops at a more purse friendly price point for those who wish to dip their toe into the trend this season.
Platform
Boasting ’90s minimalism and a grunge-style charm, platform flip-flops elongate the silhouette without sacrificing comfort. At Balenciaga, Pierpaolo Piccioli delivers a pure luxury interpretation, upgrading the familiar sandals with soft velvet and a comfortable platform. The must-have? The glittering toe ring. Elsewhere, Dries Van Noten’s newest styles boast an all-over multicoloured sequin facade, that will pair perfectly with minimalist and maximalist looks alike this season. Looking for something a little more paired-down? Marks & Spencer have got you covered, with their sleek wedge flatform flip-flops.
The white flip-flop
A timeless trend, the white flip-flop has been reinstated for spring summer 26. With a plethora of styles to chose from, crafted from leathers, rubbers and even sleek satin fabrics, let the white flip-flop be your minimalist go-to this season.
Boho
A Seventies mood continues to influence fashion. And, as the festival season kicks off with Coachella, flip-flops are imagined in woven leather and adorned with bohemian details. Styles dotted with shells, studs and sequins are being pushed out by our favourite fashion houses and high-street stores – watch this space.
