In recent years, the humble flip-flop has made an unexpected return. The practical sandal, once reserved for sandy strolls and off-duty errands, has been given a high-fashion stamp of approval and reimagined as a minimalist essential. Much of this revival can be credited to The Row, helmed by minimalist stalwarts Mary-Kate Olsen and Ashley Olsen. Their now-iconic Ginza sandal— defined by its chunky, sculptural sole—has become a go-to among the style set.

Meanwhile, classic rubber styles from Havaianas have become summer staples miles from the sun-soaked beaches of Brazil. “It is a shoe for people who want to feel the wind between their toes and to live life unconfined by oppressive straps and buckles and laces. The kind of person who might say, “What, I’ve never heard of Slack?” while passing you an ice-cold Caipirinha,” wrote Vogue’s Daniel Rogers back in 2024.

Long associated with ultra-casual dressing, flip-flops have been reimagined as an anchor to more elevated looks, too. Designers have leaned into their versatility, pairing them on the runway with everything from fluid evening gowns to tailored suiting. Whether reworked with stacked platforms or refined with subtle kitten heels, fashion’s latest take on the dress and flip-flops combo feels considered and surprisingly polished.

Worn with a long dress at summer weddings, on holiday escapes or merely on the morning commute, the flip-flop truly comes into its own. Here are five runway-inspired ways to master the dress and flip-flops look.

Red Dress + Black Flip-Flop

The impact of a bold red dress is instantly softened by a black flip-flop—it’s all about the contrast here.

Black Dress + White Sandal

Go the minimalist route in a long black dress and optic white sandals—a thong-heeled version is ideal here.

Crochet Dress + Embellished Flip-Flop

Pair embellished sandals with a crochet maxi for a cool, bohemian feel.

Sheer Dress + Jelly Sandal

Sheer continues to trend. We love the idea of pairing a slightly diaphanous dress with a more relaxed shoe, like a multicolored PVC flip-flop. Add a bikini and you’re ready for a day at the beach.

Asymmetric Dress + Contrasting Flip-Flop

The asymmetric dress is made daytime appropriate with simple flip-flops and a set of earrings.