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For the beach
Flip-flops are practically made for beachside, poolside lounging. Rubber flip-flops are key because you can get them wet without fear of causing damage, but rubber flip-flops are often boring. You aren't exactly offending anyone with your solid red slip-ons, and yet you also aren't doing your outfit any favors. There are plenty of awesome flip-flops that will take your bikini/cover-up ensemble to a new level of chic.
Wild print
Mara Hoffman is known for her vibrant prints, so it comes as no surprise that her flip-flops for Havaianas seriously deliver. They're pricier than your average flip-flop but truly worth the cost once you see how great they look with your teal pedicure. Plus, each pair is decorated with a tiny charm on the strap — perfect for the hippy-dippy part of you that's always channeling Stevie Nicks. (MaraHoffman.com, $44)
Whimsical
Yes, Marc Jacobs' little sister line Marc by Marc Jacobs makes flip-flops, and yes, they are as cute as can be. With a space-age pinwheel print on the rubber sole and a 1950s blue-and-pink color palette, these say "polished." That's all we can really ask for at the beach, isn't it? They're about as inexpensive as anything bearing Marc's name will ever be. (Zappos.com, $55)
Patent leather
Too sophisticated for a rubber sole? We can't really blame you. For awesome flip-flops that won't be destroyed by water, try a patent leather pair by Yosi Samra Roee. Pick bright neon pink or bright neon yellow shades that are anything but dull. (Zappos.com, $48)
For the weekend
A summer social calendar is an active one, from long walks on the boardwalk to music festivals and flea markets. You want to treat your feet kindly. The weekend flip-flop doesn't need to be quite as utilitarian as the beach flip-flop, so feel free to experiment with materials and textures.
Woven
These woven thong sandals by Ecote make an artsy statement. Think of how perfect they'd be with denim cutoffs and a breezy tank for a day spent listening to live music outside. (Urban Outfitters, $30)
Studded
The studs on this leather flip flop from Yosi Samra are so subtle that you could actually miss them. They add interest to a basic biscotti-colored shoe for a barely-there look that would be totally dreamy with a nice (safe!) tan. (RevolveClothing.com, $57)
Beaded
Intricate beading is so great for summer, especially on your feet. These flip-flops by Laidback London have multicolored beading and a cushy leather sole for maximum comfort, perfect for those warm days when you're having adventures. (Urban Outfitters, $77)
Formal occasions
Anyone who says you can't wear flip-flops to work or formal events is looking at the wrong flip-flops. There are incredibly elegant options out there if you know where to find them. Get creative with flip-flops meant to be flaunted, and look for metallics or other standout colors and designs.
Grecian
You'd never guess from far away, but these are Havaianas made of the usual rubber and plastic materials classed up with a Grecian shape and a dull metallic sheen. How lovely would they be with a floor-length white dress? Pretty darn lovely. (Urban Outfitters, $30)
Heavy metal
These BCBG sandals are like liquid mercury. You'd be hard-pressed to find a floral print that wouldn't benefit from the edge these flip-flops would provide. They're so glam, no one will even register that they are the same shape as the typical "throw 'em on quick" summer shoe. (RevolveClothing.com, $59)
Bow-tied
What's more elegant than black and white? Black and white adorned with a bow! The big white bow on these flip-flops gives them a classic look worthy of style icon Audrey Hepburn. (Bloomingdales, $50)
Get more summer footwear with these links
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