Once springtime rolls around, there’s always a couple of controversial shoe trends that capture the attention of the style crowd—wedge flip-flops seem poised to take up that mantle this season. No friends, you’re not hallucinating: the “ugly” hybrid sandals that had a grip on the fashion girls in the late ’90s are having a moment (again). It’s hard to forget the first time this “contentious” shoe trend made waves in the cultural zeitgeist, as every zine was filled with style heroines and fictional protagonists donning platform wedges with flip-flop straps. The sandal trend became so ubiquitous at the time that it eventually became “tired” in the eyes of the fashion world, that is, up until recently. After so many seasons dominated by minimalist design codes, spring’s collections offer us the chance to step in a different direction, at least when it comes to our shoe choices. That’s no more apparent than with the surplus of chunkier sandals in the collections of Saint Laurent, Alaïa, Simkhai, and so many others.
No longer are delicate strappy heels or barely-there flats the only way to tap into sartorial nostalgia, as wedge flip-flops offer an alternative way to toe the line between the past and present, comfort and style, and two timeless sandal styles. It’s no wonder, then, that we’ve already seen this shoe trend take off on social media with the style crowd, a phenomenon which will likely continue well into the coming months. But if you have yet to be convinced that this “controversial” trend is indeed making a comeback, keep scrolling. Ahead, we’re sharing a few wedge flip-flop outfit ideas that not only prove that this trend is so back, but will also give you an idea of how to style them, too. Plus, we’ve curated a selection of the 30 best wedge flip-flop sandals to buy for spring (in case you feel inspired). You may never fully come around to the idea of getting rid of your heeled flip-flops, but hopefully you’ll be able to rethink your feelings about wedge versions.
Styling notes: When you want to look elegant sans effort, turn to this sandal trend as your styling solution. Even pieces as casual as a denim shirt, a satin camisole, and lace shorts can be transformed from “simple” to sophisticated when styled with wedge sandals.
ALAÏA
Satin Wedge Thong Mules
Yet again, Alaïa manages to make the trendiest shoes of the season.
Reformation
Jessie Wedge Thong
The croc-embossed leather makes this casual sandal feel a bit more sophisticated.
Gimaguas
White Wedge Heeled Sandals
Caution, readers: these wedge sandals are white hot!
Schutz
Roslyn Wedge Sandal
Give your jelly sandals an elevated update this season (quite literally).
Marc Fisher LTD
Udena Wedge Flip Flop
You can style these sandals with pretty much everything: little sundresses, linen suits, the list goes on.
Styling notes: Whether your plans for the spring entail traipsing to a new travel destination or trying a new restaurant closer to home, you’ll want to invest in a comfortable sandal—enter flip-flop wedges into the chat. Pair this sandal trend with a chic blouse and capri pants for a look that’s as comfy as it is chic.
Calling all minimalists—these slinky chocolate brown wedges are all you!
LUCASHEVA
Audokia Mesh Wedge Sandals
The Ukrainian-born designer Lucasheva’s footwear has become a fan favorite with the fashion crowd.
Prediction: Khaite’s Marlow mule will become the most coveted sandal this summer.
LE MONDE BERYL
Eel-Effect Leather Wedge Sandals
Oh, the eel-effect on these wedges is extravagant.
Prada
Patent Leather Thong Sandals
What’s at the top of our wishlist for spring? These Prada wedges, obviously.
Styling notes: Channel your inner Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy by styling this sandal trend with ’90s-inspired minimalist staples—think: layered tees, cropped trousers, structured totes. Bonus points if you add other Carolyn-inspired accessories like oval-frame sunglasses and even a kerchief headscarf.
Steve Madden
Playing Black Leather Wedges
We’d pair these wedges with a slinky bikini, sarong, and oversized sunnies.
JUDE
Yaga Leather Wedge Sandals
These will add a breath of fresh air to all your outfits.
Paris Texas
Nina Thong Mule 50
Suede sandals are the perfect investment for spring.
Saint Laurent
Cassandra Sandal
Walk on the wild side with these leopard print wedges.
These two-tone sandals will be a timeless addition to your wardrobe.
Styling notes: You don’t have to be a minimalist to adopt this shoe trend; you can make these sandals feel more like a statement piece with your styling. Lean into a maximal aesthetic by styling your thong wedges with a trend-forward printed set, longline trench, and east-to-west clutch bag.
Massimo Dutti
Split Leather High-Heel Wedge Sandals
Row aesthetics for less.
Gap
Vegan Leather Wedge Thong Sandals
These navy blue thong wedges look way more expensive than their price tag.
Anthropologie
Wedge Thong Heels
It doesn’t get more classic than a pair of chocolate-brown suede wedges.
These snakeskin wedges are single-handedly bringing cool back.
Stuart Weitzman
Vinnie 50 Wedge Thong Sandal
Stuart Weitzman’s sandals are renowned for their comfort, so you’ll be able to wear these well into the summer.
Styling notes: If you prefer to keep it simple, you can’t go wrong with this sandal trend by pairing it with your everyday staples. One effortless styling formula that works every single time? Pair your footwear with a tank top, a slip skirt, and a shoulder bag.
Christopher Esber
Scala Leather Wedge Sandals
Two-tone thong sandals for spring? Totally here for it.
ST. AGNI
Petit Belt Recycled-Satin Wedge Sandals
The buckle detail feels very ’90s-coded.
Black Suede Studio
Mac 70mm Wedge Sandals
We didn’t know we needed baby-blue ostrich wedges in our lives (until now).
Jeffrey Campbell
Simplicity Wedge Flip Flop
You’ll be the best-dressed guest at any spring (or summer) wedding in these sandals.
Wearing platform flip-flops to lounge by the pool is the embodiment of main-character energy.
Styling notes: Hopefully by now, we’ve fully convinced you that wedge flip-flops will be everywhere this spring—for a good reason! Whether you choose to style this sandal with a sheer sarong skirt and tank top or a simple linen dress, there’s no shortage of ways to wear this footwear trend. It’s proof that this particular sandal is a far superior choice for spring over other styles (sorry, heeled flip-flops).
Ancient Greek Sandals
Ancient Greek Sandals Elyria Khaki Wedges
Warning: these satin green wedges may cause serious envy.
Simon Miller
Soleil Wedges
We’re dreaming of wearing these cowrie-shell-embellished wedges by the coast this summer.
Simkhai
Darya Leather Wedge Thong Sandal
Everything about these butter-yellow wedges is delicious.
Bec + Bridge
Lillie Beaded Wedge
We’ll need three to six days to process our obsession with the chain strap on these sandals.
Kenneth Cole
Susannah Wedge Sandal
On a strict budget? These wedges are a more wallet-friendly option.
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