Why Flip-flops are the Perfect Summer Shoes

With countless trends that ebb and flow into our consciousness and our wardrobes each season, as a Stylist I try to focus on those pieces which will stand the test of time, perhaps with a simple tweak to keep an outfit feeling current. When summer arrives, it’s time for the not-so-humble flip-flop to step up to the stylish plate. I know what you’re thinking: Flip-flops for summer? Groundbreaking! But this once unassuming rubber sandal is no longer merely a beach buddy, nor should it just be seen as the convenient footwear of choice to slip on and nip to the shops in. It really can add the finishing touch to your outfits.

For me, the one name that springs to mind for this classic thong sandal is Havaianas. It’s the brand loved as much by its Brazilian home-crowd as it is in Europe and a celebrity favourite from Supermodels to Hollywood A-Listers.

Did you know, Havaianas have been around since 1962? With nearly 60 years of flip-flop-making under their belt they definitely know their stuff.

Introducing the Havaianas Slim Sparkle

Havaianas constantly update their offering and I’m excited to share this season’s new Slim Sparkle design featuring a glitter toe-strap and gradient glitter effect along the edge of the sole for extra sparkle - a Stylist magpie’s dream!

Not just an afterthought, I styled this outfit around the cream and gold Slim Sparkle.

Top, Lauren Ralph Lauren; Shorts, Forever New; Bag, Coach; Flip-flops throughout, Havaianas

How to dress-up your summer basics

A touch of sparkle will add interest to any outfit but this need not be for ‘best’ because I’m talking about everyday outfits and elevating them to stylish new levels. I’ve taken 4 colours of the Havaianas Slim Sparkle flip-flops and styled them up to give you practical tips on how to dress-up your looks this season.

Metallic accessories are for life, not just for parties!

1. Denim Days

Upgrade your classic denim shorts with a voluminous sleeved blouse in a bold floral print and accessorise with a tonal bag, silver jewellery and sparkling flip-flops. It sounds simple, doesn’t it? But often we find ourselves grabbing a basic tee to wear with shorts for ‘ease’. Well, this couldn’t be easier, it’s just a case of having that conscious thought to always elevate your style. And here, I’ve done it for you!

Blouse, Tommy Hilfiger; Shorts, Lauren Ralph Lauren; Bag, Coach. All available in-store.

Style Tip: Metallic accessories will never fail to dress up any outfit and even flip-flops and a basket tote will boost your basics when given the Midas touch.

Bag, Great Plains; Necklace and bangle, Mint Velvet. Available in-store

2. Two-Tone

For minimalist lovers with a penchant for a muted aesthetic, style a light pair of paper-bag waist shorts with this elegant wrap-front blouse tucked in. Keep the look effortlessly contemporary by sticking to black accessories and the big hat is a must.

Hat, Pia Rossini; Blouse, Scotch & Soda; Shorts, Superdry. All available in-store.

Style Tip: If dresses are your summer go-to, try this easy-to-wear paisley print smock dress from Object, one of the top new brands in-store at Elys.

Dress, Object; Hat, Pia Rossini. Available in-store.

3. Hues of Blue

Take the direct route to effortless style with a tonal outfit from top-to-toe, simply embellish with a long necklace and coordinating glitter-encrusted Havaianas.

Bag, Coach; Necklace, Mint Velvet; T-shirt, Esprit; Shorts, Benetton. All available in-store.

Style Tip: There’s nothing quite like crisp white with cobalt blue to remind us of Aegean holidays and this dress is just the ticket. Go big on blue with this net bag to mirror the dress embroidery and step into the blue-toned Slim Sparkle to finish.

Dress, Benetton; Bag, Longchamp. Available in-store.

4. Going for Gold

While I’d love to encourage you to simply #wearthedamnshorts, we know it’s not always heatwave central during the Great British summer. For those days when you want a little more coverage, this look still feels fresh in pastel tones but has a smarter feel which would look as at home in the office as on the weekend.

Style Tip: If you do fancy opting for shorts this printed style works perfectly with a blouse tucked in and compliments the gold flip-flops, while this dainty top-handle bag adds polish and pulls the look together.

Hat, Powder; Blouse, Reiss; Shorts, Forever New; Bag, Coach

Shop Havaianas online and in-store.

Now go forth and sparkle through summer! Need help finding your style? Book a FREE Personal Styling appointment with Helen and the team of expert stylists in-store.

Remember to share your style with us @elyswimbledon and check out at Helen’s Instagram @cocomamastyle for more style inspiration and tips.