The heeled flip-flops that Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber are already wearing this summer

This summer of 2026, an unexpected shoe is making its way into every wardrobe. Heeled flip-flops are moving from the beach to the city, with catwalks and celebrities alike making them their favorite pair. But how can we explain such a craze, and above all, how can we wear them with style?

From the beach to the catwalk: the flip-flop reinvents itself

Flip-flops have long been relegated to the role of summer basic. However, fashion houses have decided to give them a new lease of life over the past few seasons. The most convincing example is Chanel, which, for its Spring-Summer 2024 show, brought the flip-flop back into fashion in a flat, streamlined version.

In 2026, designers are going one step further. On the catwalks of spring-summer 2026several houses redefined the contours of this shoe. For Alaïa, it’s a graphic shoe to be worn day or night. Max Mara, meanwhile, plays on simplicity with a micro-heel.

From now on, flip-flops will no longer be confined to sandy beaches, but will become a city essential. This shift from casual to chic is at the heart of this summer’s trend.

Why the heel changes everything

Adding a small heel instantly adds a touch of sophistication to the look. It’s precisely this detail that makes heeled flip-flops this season’s most desirable shoe. The silhouette lengthens, the gait transforms.

What’s more, this type of sandal remains comfortable and versatile. So you can go from lunch on the terrace to an evening out without changing shoes. It’s this practicality that makes them so appealing.

“Comfortable, versatile, simple: the flip-flop once again reveals all its fashion potential this summer.”

Hailey Bieber, Kendall Jenner, Kylie Jenner: the it girls have decided

The most popular celebrities of the moment have already adopted this trend. Hailey Bieber chose heeled flip-flops to accompany her polka-dot capri. Kendall Jenner, meanwhile, was spotted wearing a pair to sublimate her immaculate dress.

More recently, Kylie Jenner also succumbed to the trend, leaving a date with Timothée Chalamet in New York. These appearances confirm that the elevated sandal is taking hold well beyond the beach.

• Hailey Bieber wears her heeled flip-flops with a polka-dot capri.
• Kendall Jenner pairs them with an immaculate dress.
• Kylie Jenner chose them for an outing in New York.
• Alaïa offers a graphic version that can be worn day or night.
• Max Mara opts for a micro-heel for a discreet, chic effect.

These combinations prove that heeled flip-flops can be adapted to a wide range of styles. For example, they are just as suited to a casual outfit as they are to a dressy dress. The key is to choose the right heel height for the occasion.

How to wear them every day

For a day out on the town, pair heeled flip-flops with straight jeans or linen pants. What’s more, they look great with a flowing dress for an effortless summer look. Micro-heels remain the most versatile height for everyday wear.

For an evening out, on the other hand, you can opt for a more assertive heel. A pair in leather or satin immediately enhances the outfit. The effect is guaranteed without sacrificing comfort.

Which models to invest in this summer 2026

The market offers options for every budget. At Zara, satin kitten sandals are available for €29.95. An affordable way to test the trend without obligation.

For an intermediate budget, Mango offers leather sandals with a strappy heel for €120. For its part, Toteme offers flip-flops with a small 40 mm heel for €398 at Farfetch. Both options combine quality and style.

For those looking to invest in a luxury piece, there are plenty of choices. Gucci’s Vittoria flip-flops are priced at €820, Gianvito Rossi ‘s Calypso 35 sandals at €690 at MyTheresa. At the top, Saint Laurent’s Opyum mules by Anthony Vaccarello in satin crepe fetch €1,150.

So, whether you’re looking for an affordable pair or a luxury creation, heeled flip-flops are the answer. The trend is broad enough to accommodate all tastes and styles. And that’s what makes them the star shoe for summer 2026.

• heeled flip-flops