Designer Flip-Flops Surge as Summer’s Dominant Footwear Trend

Flip-flops and espadrilles are emerging as prominent fashion items in 2025, transcending their traditional associations with casual or peasant footwear to become stylish and versatile choices. The espadrille, with roots in Basque peasant culture, has been elevated in fashion circles by designers like Yves Saint Laurent and contemporary brands such as Morjas and Drake's, who incorporate unique materials and military-inspired fabrics. Meanwhile, flip-flops are gaining popularity as everyday urban wear, with high-end designers like Eli Russell Linnetz's ERL releasing luxury platform styles that quickly sell out, and mainstream brands like The Row seeing a significant rise in searches for their Dune Flatform Sandals. Comfort-focused designs such as the Oka Recovery Flip-flops, made from EVA foam with arch support, have also been praised for their durability and blister-free wear during travel. Leg-lengthening sandals, including mini wedges and flatforms in neutral tones, are noted as fashionable alternatives to stilettos, offering style and comfort for various occasions. These trends reflect a broader shift toward combining comfort, practicality, and high fashion in summer footwear choices.