Summer Shoes!

Calling out around the world – are you ready for a brand new beat?
Summer’s here, the time is right for dancing in the street!

Martha and the Vandellas said it best, and I’ve been following the lead. Tis the season for flirty dresses, fresh accessories, outdoor festivities, and flip flops. Let your feet breathe, and let the dancing commence!

But there are SO many fly flip flops up for grabs nowadays. The price range is ridiculous — from $3 Old Navy flippies that might last a season or two, to high end bejeweled thong sandals.

You might have your eye on the hot to death Giuseppe Zanottis, but at $200 +, I don’t know many bellas who would willingly make such a summer splurge. If you’re seeking sandals that can take you from the beach to the most sizzling outdoor festivals, look no further. I’ve got some tried-and-tested recommendations that will make your feet look cute and feel comfortable all day long, and will last you through several summers. All under $50, promise!

First stop, Havaianas! The Brazilian flip flops have earned a reputation as being both fashionable and comfortable. Women who own them tend to swear that they’re the best slippers money can buy, and having finally given them a road test, I can understand why. Havaianas are thicker than your average and cushioned for comfort, the bit between your toes doesn’t chafe, and with their latest model the Fit, that thwack-thwack-thwack element of every other flippie has been eliminated. I love their simple elegance, and the straps between the toes and around the ankle elevates these from your everyday flip flops. No wonder they cost $30!

A relatively recent trend I can get behind is flip flops for the bride. I wish I had the foresight to get me a pair back when I got hitched — the ballet slippers I had dyed to match my dress were not the biz, in terms of wearing them after the big event. Brides and fashionable ladies who want to change their style up are in luck thanks to Switchflops! I love the idea of these shoes!

Switchflops are such a simple, chic concept it’s kind of amazing they didn’t exist before. Choose your sole, and then switch your strap as much as you’d like. Switchflops straps come with a velcro back and a pretty button at the “V”, in so many colors it’ll boggle your mind. Solids and patterns, shiny straps and matte, animal prints, florals, you can wear em however you like. And you can get basic black or brown rubber soles, or go fancy and get the adorable 2 inch kitten heels for fancier occasions. Switchflops range from $35 to $49 for the shoe, and straps are $12.

For classic summer footwear, you gotta check out the two R’s — Roxy and Reef.

Both brands have standard rubber soled slippers that will last you more than one summer, and both brands have stepped up their fashion game in a major way.

Roxy’s Ole sandals have a bold strap I think is eye catching and cute, and their Athenas are sandals that add that Greek goddess flair (but will leave you with the weirdest tan lines).

I love a feminine flip flop that can go from the beach to the outdoor market, and work just as well with a swimsuit as with a floaty summer dress. I think Reef’s DreamWeaver and Miss Cleo sandals fit the bill. “Call mi now for yu free readin’!”

For a flop with functionality, peep Reef’s Project Blue Stash. Endorsed by Oprah, a portion of the proceeds support the protection of the world’s coastlines through BeTrueToBlue.com. A pull out nylon drawer in the back of the sole is a handy spot to slip your keys, cash, or ID. No need to worry about leaving your stuff behind if you want to take a stroll along the sand! Love it!

So, what do you think? Do you have a pair of favorite summer shoes? What’s your go-to style?