Long confined to the beach, the flip-flop has been the bane of fashionistas: too casual, not dressy enough for the city. In 2026, the scenario changes, to the point where flat sandals seem almost wise compared to the new chic flip-flops. Worn with jeans, a dress or shorts, they are now the most desired silhouettes of the season. And the trend is only just beginning.
Between the return of the platform flip-flop, cutting-edge collaborations and minimalist leather models, this open shoe gains both height and allure. From 100% recyclable Brazilian brands to luxury labels, everyone is getting in on the action, boosted by the vacation-core wave that mixes beach and asphalt. All you have to do is choose the right model to truly say goodbye to flat sandals.
Why chic flip-flops are dethroning flat sandals in 2026
The flip-flop of 2026 no longer has much in common with the rubber beach slide. Platform models, already seen in the 2000s, are back in sober versions: neutral colors, EVA or cork soles, thin straps without ornaments. The result is an easy to put on shoe that lengthens the leg almost as much as a wedge sandal, while remaining ultra comfortable for walking around town.
The vacation-core trend has accelerated this shift between beach and sidewalk. The Havaianas x Isabel Marant collaboration, revealed for summer 2026, perfectly condenses this spirit: Brazilian beachwear DNA meets Parisian bohemian nonchalance. These fashionable flip-flops, designed to oscillate between Saint-Tropez and Paris, are presented as the future it-shoes capable of boosting faded flare jeans, a vaporous white dress or oversized linen shorts.
Platform flip-flops, minimalist leather flip-flops: the it-shoes of summer
On the platform side, Ipanema embodies this chic shift. Brazilian specialist in 100% recyclable sandals, the brand offers thongs with thick soles which immediately structure the silhouette. The lightness remains there, but the platform visible under wide leg jeans or denim Bermuda shorts gives a more worked look than a simple flat sandal. And the neutrality of the shades makes them easy to match with any summer wardrobe.
On the luxury side, minimalist leather flip-flops from The Row dominate. Its model, offered in black or red and black at a price of $780, saw a 162% increase in searches last summer according to The Lyst platform. Adopted by Jennifer Lawrence, Kendall Jenner, Zoë Kravitz or Kylie Jenner, these flip-flops complete casual looks by adding a very discreet chic touch. The Row also launched a slimmer model, in leather, designed to easily integrate with modern urban silhouettes.
How to Wear Really Chic Flip Flops with Jeans and More
With jeans, it’s all about the balance of volume. Straight or flare jeans work great with black Dune flip flops, which extend the line of the leg and keep the look minimal. The red and black version brightens up a white shirt and straight jeans, while a nude platform flip-flop slips effortlessly under wide-leg jeans, the sole protruding just enough to structure the outfit.
The options don’t stop at denim. An asymmetrical skirt takes on a more fashionable dimension combined with a platform flip-flop in a similar shade, gray on black or cream on white. A bohemian dress finds a sharper counterpoint with a thick thong that adds hold to the bottom of the silhouette. The Havaianas x Isabel Marant co-signed sandals go well with an ultra-simple black bikini as well as oversized linen shorts, while a floral jumpsuit combined with red and black Dune, a light vest and cap, illustrates the bohemian chic look spotted on Jennifer Lawrence.
Can you really wear chic flip-flops in the city with jeans?
Yes, platform or minimalist leather flip flops go very well with straight, flare or wide leg jeans, as long as you stick to sober colors and clean lines.
What is the difference between beach flip flops and chic flip flops?
Beach flip-flops are made of colored rubber, designed for water. The chic models feature thick EVA or cork soles, leather, neutral shades and a more structured strap.
Which chic flip-flop models are the most popular in 2026?
Ipanema’s platform flip-flops, the Havaianas x Isabel Marant collaboration and The Row Dune and City models are attracting attention this season, with strong enthusiasm for Dune, sold for $780.
How to wear chic flip-flops in a bohemian spirit?
They can be combined with a long bohemian dress, a vaporous white dress or oversized linen shorts, favoring natural tones and soft shapes to stick with the vacation-core spirit.
Sources
- Grazia
“Goodbye flat sandals, here are the really chic flip-flops that we won’t get tired of wearing even with jeans”
- Grazia
“Havaianas and Isabel Marant create the most desirable flip flops for summer 2026”
