In an unexpected comeback, thong sandals have returned and have been officially confirmed as the must-have shoe of the summer. The trending shoe style first surfaced in the '90s, made popular for its minimalist silhouette and maximal versatility. Entering the trend cycle once again, thong sandals are back and have never looked more chic.
The luxurious iteration of the flip-flop has been embraced by designers, celebrities, and fashion enthusiasts alike. On the Spring/Summer 2023 runways, labels such as Miu Miu, Coperni, Burberry, and Giorgio Armani all made a case for thong sandals. Celebrities have also opted to switch out their high heels and sneakers for the sandal trend, as seen by Jennifer Lawrence, Lori Harvey, Madison Bailey, Justine Skye, and Rita Ora.
The pared-down shoes have even made headway in the wild, as the style ran rampant during fashion month. Numerous attendees were photographed donning thong sandals during Paris Fashion Week and Milan Fashion Week, further proving that chic shoes can also be comfortable.
It would come as no surprise if thong sandals stick around for a few seasons. The style is timeless and is easy to pair with numerous outfits on the styling front. Whether worn with a white tank top and baggy jeans while running errands, a monokini and denim cut-offs during a tropical vacation, or a sexy slip dress and pearls for a sultry date night, thong sandals can be appropriately worn for nearly any occasion.
To get it on summer's biggest shoe trend, L'OFFICIEL has compiled the best thong sandals to add to your footwear closet.
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This Bottega Veneta heeled thong sandal is the ultimate date night shoe. The heel is high enough to add height but low enough to still wear comfortably with every step. We suggest trying to pair it with a sleek slip dress and a bold red lip for the final look.
Bottega Veneta Square Toe High Heel Sandals, $990, Bloomingdale's
Who doesn't love a platform sole? A sultry alternative to the tired flip-flops, opt for these Balenciaga sandals for your go-to poolside slip-ons.
Balenciaga Rise Thong Sandals, $695, Bloomingdale's
These elegant heels boast one of the summer's biggest fashion trends: feathers. The ostrich feathers provide graceful movement as you strut around the city while the transparent thong strap assures your feet don't slip out throughout the night.
Cult Gaia Shannon Ostrich Feather High Heel Thong, $328, Bloomingdale's
Say hello to your new favorite summer vacation heel. Its bold color and distinct design offer a contemporary edge to the nostalgic silhouette, whilst still being unquestionably glamorous and ultra-cozy.
Padded Leather Thong Sandals, $1,020, Miu Miu
Add a pop of color with this olive-green gem. Made of soft satin fabric and featuring a subtle puff, these chic thong sandals are the needed summer shoe update you've been looking for.
Dahlia Sandal Olive Satin, $295, Staud
From the office to a fun night out on the town, this gorgeous sandal is the epitome of "understated chic." Its kitten heel makes it easily walkable, not to mention there's no outfit that doesn't pair well with black shoes.
Proenza Schouler Square-Toe Thong Sandals, $675, Bloomingdale's
Don't let the knots fool you, these padded sandals fit like a dream. It adds a freshness to your summer footwear, where you'll be able to get incredible use out of them for day-to-day looks.
Loop Knotted Leather Sandals, $199, All Saints
Hop on the Barbiecore trend with this bright pink number. The rhinestoned sandal is crafted to provide maximal comfort, whilst adding a playful take on the trending style.
Versace Embellished Kitten Heel Thong Sandals, $895, Bloomingdale's
Gucci knows how to craft the perfect summer sandal. Its leather lining makes it comfortable enough to walk for miles in and it can be perfectly styled with any warm-weather outfit.
Gucci Logo Thong Sandals, $780, Bloomingdale's
