It’s official, fashion connoisseurs – the minimalist charm of the thong sandal, a beloved staple of the 1990s, has resurfaced, more captivating than ever. A surge in designs by renowned brands, including The Row and Toteme, Tory Burch, and Mango, has rekindled our fascination with this timeless summer essential.
The reemergence of thong sandals first caught our attention during the reign of another trending summer shoe – the kitten heel. Brands like Cos, Zara, Proenza Schouler, and Aeyde have displayed their masterful artistry through their versions of heeled thong sandals. These chic footwear pieces are bound to become the focal point of your summer capsule wardrobes. Remember, the perfect summer-in-the-city ensemble starts from the feet up.
The Vogue’s Pick of Thong Sandals
Here’s a look at Vogue’s curated wish list of standout thong sandals:
- The Minimalist Marvel: The Row rubber flip-flops, $650
- The Chic Classic: Tory Burch kitten heel sandals, $248
- The Vacationer’s Delight: Chloé + Eres broderie anglaise flip-flops, $725
- The Affordable Luxury: Mango kitten heel sandals, $60
A New Red Carpet Trend
Turning the tables on conventional high-heel norms, celebrities recently chose to grace the Cannes red carpet with a more comfortable option, the thong sandal. This understated summer shoe, notably donned by Jennifer Lawrence, is establishing its reign in the world of fashion.
A Sneak Peek at Other Captivating Pairs
Other enticing options range from the subtly luxurious pairs offered by Ancient Greek and Tkees to the bold statement pieces by Maison Margiela and A.Emery. The beauty of thong sandals lies in their versatility. Pair them with a breezy summer dress for a more formal look, or dress them down with a classic white tee and jeans for a laid-back, casual vibe.
Continuing their popularity streak from last summer, platform flip-flops are also making a splash, with options from & Other Stories and Prada gaining traction. For those with a bohemian flair, thong sandals from Loewe, Saint Laurent, and Birkenstock offer the perfect blend of comfort and style. In contrast, embellished options from Staud, Brunello Cucinelli, and Bottega Veneta add a touch of elegance to your summer evenings. Not to forget, the evergreen Havaianas flip-flops that offer a classic, trustworthy option.
The Timeless Appeal of Thong Sandals
The best thong sandals are undoubtedly a timeless wardrobe essential. If you’ve not yet embraced this trend, it’s high time you reconsider. Here’s an edited list of some top contenders:
The Top Thong Sandals To Consider This Summer
| Brand | Style | Price |
|---|---|---|
| The Row | Rubber flip-flops | $650 |
| Tory Burch | Kitten heel sandals | $248 |
| Chloé + Eres | Broderie anglaise flip-flops | $725 |
| Mango | Kitten heel sandals | $60 |
Behind the Trend: A Brief History
Delving into the history of this fashion industry stalwart, thong sandals, also known as flip-flops, have been a popular form of footwear for many centuries. Originating in ancient Egypt around 1500 B.C., they became a staple in Japan in the form of ‘Zori’ sandals and in Brazil in the 1900s.
The modern thong sandals’ commercial success, however, was witnessed in the late 90s, when they infiltrated the fashion scene as a trend-setting summer essential. Affordable, comfortable, and versatile, they quickly gained popularity among the masses. It’s no wonder that this trend has made a robust comeback.
90s Thong Sandals: Fashion Icons and Influence
When you think about the 90s thong sandals, one can’t overlook the influence of fashion icons who popularized them. Personalities such as Sarah Jessica Parker in her role as Carrie Bradshaw in “Sex and the City” often sported this trend, making it a coveted fashion statement.
Designers quickly jumped on this trend, with brands like Prada introducing the platform version that took the fashion world by storm. Fast forward to the present, and we see a resurgence of this iconic footwear, with more and more high-end brands incorporating them into their collections.
The Practical Appeal of Thong Sandals
Aside from their nostalgic charm, thong sandals also offer practical advantages. Their minimal design offers maximum comfort, ideal for long summer days. Moreover, their versatile nature allows for effortless pairing with any outfit, making them an indispensable wardrobe staple.
“Thong sandals combine the ease of flip-flops with the chic factor of more structured sandals. It’s the best of both worlds,” says renowned fashion blogger, Jane Aldridge.
Industry Statistics: The Thong Sandals Market
According to market research, the global footwear industry was valued at $365.5 billion in 2020, and thong sandals accounted for a substantial share. Notably, in the US alone, over 200 million pairs of flip-flops are sold each year, indicating their widespread popularity.
Further, studies have found that women account for approximately 60% of all thong sandal sales, reinforcing their status as a fashion-forward choice for summer.
Styling Tips for Thong Sandals
For those wondering how to incorporate this trend into your style, fear not. Styling thong sandals is a breeze. Pair them with a flowy sundress for a romantic, beachy look, or opt for jeans and a t-shirt for a more casual, laid-back vibe.
They can also easily transition into evening wear when paired with a sophisticated midi dress and statement accessories. Remember, confidence is key when rocking this footwear trend.
“There’s something effortlessly cool about thong sandals. They add a laid-back vibe to any outfit while still keeping it stylish,” explains celebrity stylist, Emily Sanchez.
90s Thong Sandals: Today’s Top Choices
Today’s fashion landscape offers a wide range of thong sandals to suit any style and budget. From chic heeled variants by Tory Burch to luxurious options by The Row, there’s something for everyone.
For those seeking a budget-friendly choice, Mango offers a stylish option at $60, while Prada’s Soft padded thong sandals at $1,050 provide a more luxurious experience. All in all, thong sandals are a wise investment for the fashion-savvy individual.
Final Words: The Power of Nostalgia
The resurgence of the 90s thong sandals trend is a testament to the cyclical nature of fashion and the power of nostalgia. As the saying goes, “What goes around comes around,” and in the world of fashion, this couldn’t be more accurate.
In the end, it’s all about personal style and comfort. Whether you’re a fan of the minimalist aesthetic or prefer something more ornate, thong sandals offer a plethora of options to explore.
“Fashion is about self-expression, and the resurgence of the 90s thong sandals is a perfect example of this,” states Anna Wintour, editor-in-chief of Vogue Magazine. “They are a nod to the past while being firmly planted in the present.”
Key Takeaways
- The 90s thong sandals trend is back in full force, offering an array of styles to choose from.
- Originally popularized in the 90s, these sandals have returned as a versatile, chic, and comfortable choice for summer footwear.
- From high-end options by The Row and Prada to affordable picks from Mango, there’s a pair of thong sandals for every budget and style.
A Look into the Future
As we look to the future, it’s clear that the 90s thong sandals are here to stay. With constant updates in style, design, and comfort, these sandals continue to evolve while staying true to their roots.
With their timeless appeal, versatility, and comfort, it’s safe to say that thong sandals will continue to grace our wardrobes for many summers to come. After all, a classic never truly goes out of style.
So, get ready to slip into this summer staple and stride confidently into the warm weather, because as history has shown, thong sandals are more than just a trend—they’re a fashion institution.