Some Flip-Flops Are Basic—These 4 Trending Styles Are the Height of Chic
From jelly to leather these are the flip-flop trends you need to bookmark for summer 2026
A flip-flop used to be your best ally for a beach trip but not a serious proposition for most other settings, especially the office. That was then. Now, the flip-flop has emerged as such a dominant style of sandal that it's an umbrella term—one that contains a multitude of micro trends, although they all still have the signature two straps joined between the big and second toe. Take jelly flip-flops, a variation that's sand-ready, to be sure, but also perfectly ripe for the city. Keep scrolling to see—and shop—the four flip-flop trends we're bookmarking for summer 2026.
Jelly Flip-Flops
Marianne Smyth
Jelly heels might be this summer's biggest (and most surprising) shoe trend, but the flip-flop version—with a pleasingly flat sole—has been hot property for the past few summers, and shows no sign of sloping off. Christopher Esber's candy-coloured flip-flops are selling fast (and selling out) on Net-a-Porter, while Ancient Greek Sandals, who does jelly as well as it does leather, has primary-coloured jellies that will jazz up any summer outfit.
Rubber Flip-Flops
Michelle Lin
It's hard to name a more iconic shoe, never mind flip-flop, than Brazil's Havaianas. The classic rubber flip-flop is the only off-duty sandal you need in summer; an all-rounder that will pair with swimwear as well as something more sultry come evening. There are other brands to consider in the world of rubber flip-flops, however, including Sleepers, which also has tapered soles, and the exuberant shades offered by Brizza Arezzo.
Leather Flip-Flops
Monikh Dale
The Row's Ginza helped to create an entirely new genre of flip-flop: leather. M&S had their own sell-out version of the polished flip-flop—and, now, contemporary brands have put their own spin on the sleek and super-minimal sandal that is more than office-appropriate.
Comfy Flip-Flops
If you're going to be doing serious mileage, a sandal designed to support a high step count is going to be a priority. Luckily, several footwear brands known for their tech-first approach have flip-flops that are stylish and serious about comfort like FitFlop and Archies.
