Introduction
Few would have predicted it: thong sandals—once the simplest, most practical summer choice—are now a fashion essential for 2025. The humble flip-flop has evolved, emerging as a stylish, comfortable must-have for beach holidays, city weekends, and even urban nightlife. This blog explores how thong sandals transcended their beachy roots, how to wear them with flair this summer, and why they’re making headlines in both designer and high street collections.
The Evolution of Thong Sandals
For decades, thong sandals (or flip-flops) have been beloved for their practicality but overlooked by style leaders. That changed in 2025, as designers upgraded the look with innovative materials, striking silhouettes, and elevated embellishments, bridging the gap between comfort and high-fashion credibility.
Fashion houses including Dior, Khaite, Balenciaga, and Ferragamo have all contributed to this renaissance, introducing everything from candy-coloured fringe to sculptural wooden soles and metallic details. The result? A new respect for thong sandals as the go-to shoe of the moment.
Why Thong Sandals and Why Now?
- Summer Nostalgia: The revival taps into early-2000s nostalgia but with better materials and refined shapes.
- Comfort Reigns: With consumers prioritising all-day-long comfort, flat sandals outperform clunky heels and delicate slides.
- Versatility and Diversity: Thong sandals now range from minimalist black leather pairs to bold, architectural, heeled sandals—ensuring a fit for every taste and occasion.
New-Season Designer Details
- Leather upgrades: Supple, high-quality leathers replace basic plastics, reintroducing flip-flops as luxe essentials.
- Embellishments: Think metallic straps, decorative buckles, and even sculpted heels or platform soles.
- Unexpected colours: Pastels, candy-brights, and rich earth tones freshen up classic silhouettes.
How to Style Thong Sandals in 2025
For the Beach or Pool
- Stick to waterproof materials or rubber for sand and surf.
- Pair with flowing kaftans or minimal swimsuits for effortless resort style.
- Finish the look with oversized sunglasses and a straw tote.
Everyday City Look
- Team leather thong sandals with cropped jeans or wide-leg trousers and a linen shirt.
- Add a tailored blazer or lightweight trench for elevated city style.
- Bright pops of colour or metallic sandal straps guarantee compliments.
For Evening and Special Outings
- Opt for thong sandals with block heels or metallic details to pair with midi dresses and evening skirts.
- Try sculptural, fashion-forward pairs to make a subtle yet striking statement.
Accessory Pairings
- Anklets, toe rings, and bright nail polish draw attention to stylish sandal design.
- Sporty bags or belt bags work well for casual outings; clutches for the evening.
Influencer and Celebrity Inspiration
Celebrity stylists have been spotted upgrading even the plainest summer dress with snazzy, designer thong sandals. Think Bella Hadid blending an all-black look with chunky white thong sandals or Hailey Bieber pairing chocolate leather flip-flops with casual shorts and an oversized linen shirt for the ultimate “off-duty” vibe.
Sustainability Spotlight
This year also sees a burst of eco-friendly thong sandals, with many brands making styles from recycled or plant-based materials—a fit for more conscious summer wardrobes.
Why Thong Sandals Belong in Every Wardrobe Now
- They transition seamlessly from casual to chic, day to night.
- Comfort meets visual impact, making them a surprisingly versatile base for trend-driven dressing.
- Easy to pack and easy to style, they’re indispensable for travel.
Conclusion
Thong sandals have stepped into the limelight for summer 2025, combining comfort, nostalgia, and fashion innovation. However you choose to wear them, these revived icons will see you through every sunshine-filled adventure in style.
Ready to showcase your unique summer style? Join BEF Models, the top modelling platform for emerging and established talents, and put your best foot forward!
