By: Carrie Yotter
Updated On: 3/13/26
SHOE THING
The (Sometimes Annoying) Sound of Spring Is Back
Flip flops are “hear” to stay.
I was writing a friend about this story before I even knew what I wanted to say. Except that I knew I was going to talk about flip flops. I shared that my first memory of flip flops as a child was during the family’s first annual warm-weather pilgrimage to the local drugstore, where we could pick from a few basic colors in the sizes they had. And I would without fail anticipate the soon-to-be pain between my first 2 toes, needing a good month or 2 of “adjusting” before I and my siblings and friends could tear off in our flip flops for rest of the summer.
Thankfully, we have infinitely more and better “floptions” these days. But before I can even get to that very real, literally raw childhood memory of breaking my flip flops in, there is…
THE SOUND.
No matter where you’re testing them out, even if you’re already committed and walking oh so assuredly toward your friends for a dinner date… that smack of the heel, crack of the “flip”... how does one even describe it? The sound can be annoying, at best. Ushering in “HELLO SPRING” like nails on a chalkboard.
I guess most of us suck up the click-clack and accept it as part of the uniform AND soundtrack of spring/summer. Which would we should, honestly. Wet boardwalks, muggy morning dog strolls, brisk grocery store pit stops…no one is immune.
But more importantly – remember that flip flops are convenient. They go with pretty much everything. You can sport an OG rubber/foam pair or a more elegant leather version. In other words, they are an essential spring and summer shoe.
Thankfully, we have infinitely more and better “floptions” these days. But before I can even get to that very real, literally raw childhood memory of breaking my flip flops in, there is…
THE SOUND.
No matter where you’re testing them out, even if you’re already committed and walking oh so assuredly toward your friends for a dinner date… that smack of the heel, crack of the “flip”... how does one even describe it? The sound can be annoying, at best. Ushering in “HELLO SPRING” like nails on a chalkboard.
I guess most of us suck up the click-clack and accept it as part of the uniform AND soundtrack of spring/summer. Which would we should, honestly. Wet boardwalks, muggy morning dog strolls, brisk grocery store pit stops…no one is immune.
But more importantly – remember that flip flops are convenient. They go with pretty much everything. You can sport an OG rubber/foam pair or a more elegant leather version. In other words, they are an essential spring and summer shoe.
OUR FAVORITE FLIP-FLOPS FOR SPRING OUTFITTING
COMFY-COZY TOESIES
The Fiona is like the most easygoing, dependable, and stylish friend you’ve got in your contact list.
Not unlike the (many) simple, borderline elegant things I’m coveting from The Row, these made-in-the-suede slip-ons boast ergonomic footbeds so you can take on the to-from days of spring and summer with ease.
Not unlike the (many) simple, borderline elegant things I’m coveting from The Row, these made-in-the-suede slip-ons boast ergonomic footbeds so you can take on the to-from days of spring and summer with ease.
A CROCHET SASHAY
Often times I struggle with getting dressed when the temps go up, because my outfit is rooted in cotton or linen… though I’m comfortable, my outfits feels a bit “flat,” even while piling on gold necklaces and bracelets.
To up the interest factor, sporting a pair of reserved-but-yet-fun flip flops always hits.
The pop of muted color in these crocheted cotton thongs does just enough.
THE TIDE IS NIGH
If there was one flip flop to do all the things I needed it do…let’s say on a long weekend where a beach may or not be involved, it’d be the Tide.
The studded shell embellishments alone piqued my interest, but its squared-off toe and supple leather construction make this the pair to wear.
The studded shell embellishments alone piqued my interest, but its squared-off toe and supple leather construction make this the pair to wear.
YOUR FRIENDS WILL BE SO JELLY
At first thought, the idea of a jelly flip flop made my toes ache. But I was soon humbled after some afternoon errand-running, with no discomfort and only praise reaped from passersby who wanted to know from where these jelly sandals came.
What I also love about the Beach Day is that all of the lines look soft. They’re just fun, and with seven colors available, you could technically create brand-new looks every day of the week.
What I also love about the Beach Day is that all of the lines look soft. They’re just fun, and with seven colors available, you could technically create brand-new looks every day of the week.
C IS FOR COOKIE CUTTER
Though these sandals are anything but… that scalloped edge! They stand out in a sea of more traditionally-shaped sandals.Which for some is reason enough to add them to your wardrobe.
The Cookie Cutter is also crafted from 100% rubber, so whether the day includes sun, showers, or waves, their versatility really comes through.
The Cookie Cutter is also crafted from 100% rubber, so whether the day includes sun, showers, or waves, their versatility really comes through.
RIDING INTO THE SUNSET (BLVD)
This Jeffrey Campbell creation marries the best of both a flip flop and a gladiator-eque sandal. Its construction and aesthetic whisper elegance.
Exclusive to Free People, the Sunset Blvd. offer up several ways to style thanks to their “customizable” oversized laces–meaning you can wrap and layer them however you choose. And the jelly sole will cushion you from point A to point B to…wherever the wind takes you.
FLIP FLOP
YOU DON’T STOP
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