These 4 Post-Pedicure Outfits Make a Strong Case for Flip-Flops
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I'd like to personally invite you to embrace post-pedicure style. We should be encouraged by the spring runways that warned us flip-flops were due for a serious moment, essentially giving us permission to start dressing as though we've just returned from the hotel spa (or local nail salon) with a book under our arm and dismissive out of office auto-reply turned on.
In fact, consider this an intro to OOOutfits [hold for applause], dedicated to those among us who are committed to dressing for S/S 19 as though we're perpetually on vacation. The four summer outfits below are essentially the contents of my carry-on, as worn shamelessly around New York whilst daring anyone to comment. PS, if you think there's a single summer trend that doesn't work with a pair of Havaianas, you'd be wrong. Incontrovertible evidence below.
This look is inspired by: Everyone I unfollow on Instagram when they post photos of themselves in Santorini while I'm at work. (You know who you are, [name redacted].)
Key styling elements: A strong tonal vibe, a croc-effect bag, and some shameless midriff. Please also note that I'm styling up my rose-gold sandals with a necklace worn as an anklet (this is because anklets are a universal signal that one is on vacation).
Best worn when: Dashing for your plane through an Italian airport, or for the L train when it runs 20 minutes apart on nights and weekends. (This hustle-friendly heel strap makes for flip-flops you can run in.)
This look is inspired by: Season 1 Jane from Melrose Place, who once walked out of Michael's Malibu beach house donning a pair of high-waist white culottes from her eponymous fashion line (Jane Mancini Designs) with patterned summer sandals. I've been thinking about it ever since.
Key styling elements: The raw hem on the culottes feels very off-duty, especially when paired with chic tropical fashion flip-flops. Also, this beaded little bag has gone everywhere with me since I discovered her.
Best worn when: Sitting at an outside table, asking your waiter what the actual difference between Aperol and Campari is.
This look is inspired by: Wedding reception outfits after everyone's located the Havaianas in their swag bags and can finally start enjoying themselves.
Key styling elements: Ultra-versatile day-to-night pieces that you always pack in your carry-on because you can wear them 100 different ways. These polished flip-flops also look really excellent with wide-leg pants if you're going to do that head-to-toe-beige look.
Best worn when: You don't know how fancy the restaurant is.
This look is inspired by: Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas/all dads on vacation.
Key styling elements: Expertly paired prints, by way of this silky floral shirt and (slightly more subtle) Tropical Strap Havaianas. Also, apparently I really like wearing ankle-crop pants?
Best worn when: You realize that your calling in life is to move to Barcelona and become a meditation teacher, but for now, you just need to pop out to Whole Foods.
Natalie Cantell is an NYC-based style director, creative consultant, and contributing fashion editor. She was the executive director of Who What Wear and Marie Claire’s brand studio until 2023, and now freelances globally on shoots, stories, and special projects across fashion, luxury, beauty, home, and travel.