If the mention of thongs has you instantly thinking of your underwear drawer, allow me to re-educate you. You see, nearly every luxury buyer I have spoken to for the SS25 season has mentioned thongs (i.e, flip-flops) as one of this year's biggest summer accessories trends however they're not talking about the ones underneath your clothes.
Instead, they're referring to a shoe trend that's been building rapidly over the past few years and which is only set to become more popular as we move full force into summer. Thong sandals are quickly becoming the cool girls' sandal of choice worn with everything from denim shorts and slip skirts to chic summer dresses.
If you're wondering why thongs sandals, well, the trend falls under the umbrella of '90s minimalism offering a pared-back, classic look that works for a whole host of different occasions. Flat thong sandals, AKA the traditional flip-flop style you probably wore to the beach when you were younger, are perfect for wearing every day and, this season, come in a whole host of fabrications from classic foam to more elevated leather and suede iterations.
But, the appeal doesn't stop there. No longer resigned to beach days alone, heeled thong sandals also make a chic choice for more dressed-up events, while platform flip flops offer the perfect balance between the two for those who want a sandal that delivers on both comfort and style.
Of course, it comes as little surprise then, to see all the most stylish people have gravitated towards the simple sandal style in recent months. And, both the high street and designer brands have ensured they've had plenty of options to choose from when it comes to shopping for the best thong sandals—just keep scrolling for proof.
Shop the Best Thong Sandals for Summer 2025:
Shop the Best Flat Thong Sandals
Havaianas will always be a classic choice yet this square toe style feels like a modern update.
This suede style look incredibly expensive.
The ultimate platform flip flop — these are a great investment.
If you only buy one colour thong sandal this season, make it a red pair.
This tan leather style has a relaxed, boho feel.
Free People has so many great pairs of thongs right now, but I think these are my favourites.
This chic pair also come in tan, black and cream.
Christopher Esber's jelly flip flops tick off two trends in one.
The espadrille sole makes these perfect for wearing on holiday.
Pair this monochrome style with black tailored trousers for an interesting contrast.
These suede thong sandals feel designer inspired.
The Best Heeled Thong Sandals
Brown makes a softer alternative to classic black.
You'll get so much wear out of this kitten heel style.
If a stiletto heel isn't for you, why not try a wedge.
The contrast sole makes these feel even more elevated.
These will be perfect for summer weddings and events.
For added support, opt for a thong sandal with an ankle strap.
For a casual finish, I love this block heeled style.
An update on your favourite black heels.
Pair with gold jewellery for a coordinated feel.
Staud's shoe collection is always impressive.
The heeled version of the Melody flip-flops above!
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Not Suede, Not Strappy—The Unexpected Style That’s Just Been Crowned Summer’s Chicest SandalIt has Jennifer Lawrence's seal of approval.
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Make Way, Make Way: These 7 “It” Sandals Are the Most Sought After of Summer 2025Start off the season on the right foot.
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Alexa Chung Just Found a New Sandal Trend That Makes "Boring" Black Skirts Feel So FreshMy black skirts are grateful.
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These High Street Sandals Already Sold Out Once—Now They're Back in a New Elevated ShadeI won't miss out again.
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Aged 35 or 56—Jennifer Aniston's Timeless Jeans-and-Sandals Pairing Always WorksAn enduring combo.
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Fashion People Have Worn These Low-Key, Affordable Sandals For Decades to Make Their Outfits Look CoolFlip-flop lovers, this one's for you.
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Sorry Birkenstock Bostons, This Is the Chic Sandal Stylish People Are Wearing Instead Right NowLife’s better in sandals.
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Jeans Don't Always Cut It—The Elegant Trouser-and-Shoe Combination Fashion People Are Wearing RNTake a page out of Hailey Bieber's style book.
