How I combine flip-flops in summer 2026: The fashion editor’s favorite styling ideas + looks
If there’s one shoe you really can’t ignore this summer, it’s probably the flip-flop. Fashion editor Julia took a closer look at the comeback of the popular toe separator.
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I remember flip-flops from my youth – in the early 2000s I wore flip-flops like Paris Hilton and Co. up and down. The difference from back then? Today, the footwear is presented with absolutely high quality and is no longer just worn on the beach or with extremely casual outfits. Quite the opposite: models with heels or made of leather and the combination with elegant basic looks make the flip-flop shine in new splendor. This means that it has finally become the absolute staple of the trendy “Clean Girl” aesthetic.
Style flip-flops in everyday life: The trendy sandals now look so elegant
The flip-flop trend is simply everywhere in summer 2026! My personal favorite is currently a trendy model from Havaianas. But I also like toe separators with a platform and high-quality leather sandals in a flip-flop style and are firmly on my wish list. I’ll tell you here how you can best present the different variants and get through the hot months in style.
#1 Colorful flip flops with a maxi skirt
Whether in clean white or bright colors: Voluminous maxi skirts are a wonderfully airy and elegant choice in summer. Flip-flops harmonize perfectly with these key pieces and give the look just the right dose of casualness for everyday life. My styling tip: Make sure that the color of the toe separators is repeated in the outfit. If you refer to the well-known “Sandwich rule” and pick up the color of your shoes, for example on a T-shirt, jacket or a headscarf, you can easily create a harmonious image.
#2 Simple flip flops with Bermuda shorts
Nothing looks more casual in summer than the combination of Bermuda shorts and flip-flops. For a clean look, I recommend simple toe separators in timeless black, brown or white. A simple but effective outfit that immediately demonstrates fashionable flair! What is important when it comes to styling? Choose shorts that have a looser cut and a loose fit. If you stick to a relaxed silhouette, the look will look elegant and effortless in no time – even with such an uncomplicated combination.
#3 Flip flops with a summer dress
What would summer be without that? perfect summer dress? My tip: Now go for feel-good patterns like polka dots, graphic prints or floral designs. If you want to combine your new favorite piece with flip-flops, it’s best to choose a maxi dress with perfectly pedicured toes peeking out boldly from under the hem. Would you like to make the look more elegant in the evening? Then simply swap the flat models for toe separators with heels or platforms – this will upgrade the dress in no time.
#4 Flip flops with white jeans
Also white jeans are an absolute must-have for the warm season and ideal when it gets a little cooler or you have an appointment in the office. For the perfect balance of comfort and elegance, simply style it with simple leather flip-flops. The subtle footwear breaks the severity of the jeans and looks wonderfully high-quality. Rounded off with selected accessories – such as an elegant handbag, sunglasses and a matching belt – you can create a minimalist outfit with maximum impact in no time.
#5 Combine colored flip-flops with a pattern
Do you love colorful things? If you’re looking for variety, you should now opt for eye-catching flip-flops (the colorful selection from Havaianas is ideal for this). Combine the eye-catching shoes with anything that immediately puts you in a good mood. Whether patterned skirts, colored shirts or color blocking – this styling knows no limits. Because hand on heart: when, if not in summer, can we really show our colors when it comes to fashion?
