Once again, the thong sandal has become the must-have shoe of the summer. It’s no longer just for the beach or vacations—it’s now a key piece in any well-rounded warm-weather wardrobe. On the spring/summer 2026 runways, brands like Max Mara, Balenciaga, and Khaite embraced the minimalist ’90s style, showing everything from sleek flats to playful wedges and many kitten-heeled versions. Editors and celebrities have followed suit, wearing the sandal for everyday outfits thanks to its effortless versatility.

Vogue’s Thong Sandal Wish List:

The Celeb-Approved Flat
A. Emery Kinto flip flops – $180, NET-A-PORTER

The Pop of Red
Black Suede Studio Kendal 35 suede sandals – $300, NORDSTROM

The Croc-Embossed
Loeffler Randall Lina sandals – $250, NORDSTROM

The Trending Wedge
Jude Yaga wedge sandals – $580, NET-A-PORTER

The Burst of Yellow
Staud Freja thong kitten heel sandals – $295, SHOPBOP

The Two-Tone Wedge
Christopher Esber scala wedge sandals – $845, SHOPBOP

The Minimalist Heel
Khaite Archer sandals – $920, KHAITE

I’ll admit, I was once skeptical. Something about showing my toes on city sidewalks never felt quite right. But today’s best thong sandals—with playful pops of color, chic croc-embossed finishes, and minimalist silhouettes—quickly changed my mind. The beauty of the thong sandal is how it grounds a look without overpowering it. It gives off an off-duty ease without looking unpolished or messy.

Take a cue from Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner, who often wear theirs with worn-in denim and simple white tees for an easy, California-cool vibe. Or find inspiration in our Vacation Shop on how to style flip-flops, where they contrast sharp tailoring with a printed sarong, like Dries Van Noten, for a look that takes you from day to night. Whether paired with everyday basics or your Sunday best, the thong sandal brings an elegant ease that always feels just right.

The Flat Style
A flat leather thong sandal is something you’ll reach for again and again—to wear with jeans, dresses, and everything in between. Go for a neutral style with minimalist straps in black, white, or shades of brown for maximum versatility.

– Toteme croc-effect flip flops – $510, NET-A-PORTER
– Banana Republic Venise leather flip flops – $290, BANANA REPUBLIC
– H&M leather flip-flops – $55, H&M
– A. Emery Kinto flip flops – $180, NET-A-PORTER
– The Row Beach flip flops – $920, THE ROW
– Tkees Lily flip flops – $85, NORDSTROM

The Heeled Style
Whether for a special occasion or a day you just want a little extra height, the heeled thong sandal delivers. It feels thoughtful without sacrificing ease—proof that a little lift goes a long way.

– Khaite Archer sandals – $920, KHAITE
– Aeyde Wilma leather sandals – $545, NET-A-PORTER
– Bottega Veneta Sampieri thong sandals – $950, BOTTEGA VENETA
– Black Suede Studio Kendal 35 suede sandals – $300, NORDSTROM
– Staud Freja thong kitten heel sandals – $295, SHOPBOP
– Loewe toggle sandals – $1,200, LOEWE

The Wedge Style
The wedge is back and better than ever. For the minimalist, simple leather styles offer a fashion-forward finish that won’t compete with the rest of your outfit. For the maximalist, bold pops of color let you embrace summer’s playful mood.

– Prada patent leather thong sandals – $1,170, PRADA
– Jude Yaga wedge sandals – $580, NET-A-PORTER
– Le Monde Bérryl micro wedge thong sandals – $700, LE MONDE BÉRYL
– Alaïa Tong 75 suede wedge sandals – $1,300, NET-A-PORTER
– Neous Tercus 50 leather thong sandals – $730, NET-A-PORTER
– Christopher Esber scala wedge sandals – $845, SHOPBOP

The Summer FavoriteBalance the simple, minimalist look of a thong sandal with fun pops of color, material, and texture. Styles like Ancient Greek Sandals’ multicolored Saionara flip-flops, Christopher Esber’s Jo sandals, or J.Crew’s Tkees collaboration add personality to your summer outfits.

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Ancient Greek Sandals
Saionara flip flops
$290 NET-A-PORTER

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Madewell
The Aliyah thong sandals
$98 NORDSTROM

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Loeffler Randall
Lina sandals
$250 NORDSTROM
$250 SHOPBOP

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J.Crew
x TKEES thong sandals
$95 J.CREW

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Miu Miu
thong sandals
$795 MIU MIU

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Christopher Esber
Jo PVC flip flops
$335 NET-A-PORTER

Frequently Asked Questions
Here is a list of FAQs about stylish thong sandals for summer ranging from basic to more detailed questions

1 What exactly are thong sandals
Theyre sandals with a single strap that runs between your big toe and second toe connecting to the sides Flipflops are the most common type but thong sandals can be much more elevated and stylish

2 Are thong sandals just fancy flipflops
Not exactly While flipflops are casual rubber thongs stylish thong sandals are made from leather suede or highquality materials They often have better arch support cushioned soles and elegant designs like heels or embellishments

3 Are they actually comfortable for allday wear
It depends on the pair Highquality thong sandals with contoured footbeds arch support and soft leather straps can be very comfortable Cheap flat rubber ones are not good for long walks

4 Will the strap between my toes hurt
It can at first especially if youre not used to it Look for sandals with soft padded toe posts Breaking them in gradually helps a lot

5 What are the benefits of wearing thong sandals in summer
They are incredibly breathable let your feet tan evenly are easy to slip on and off and offer a minimalist leglengthening look that goes with almost any outfit

6 Can I wear thong sandals with socks
Yes its a trendy fashion choice especially with chunky or sporty thong sandals and crew socks For classic leather thongs its less common but still done

7 What should I look for when buying a stylish pair
Look for genuine leather a contoured or cushioned footbed a secure fit and a versatile color like tan black or metallics

8 Are there thong sandals with good arch support
Absolutely Many brands now offer orthopedic or supportive thong sandals Look for terms like orthoticfriendly molded footbed or arch support in the product description

9 Can I dress up thong sandals for a night out
Yes Look for