Somewhere, at some point, a fashion visionary had a bold idea: to fuse two beloved staples of every style aficionado – the laid-back ease of flip-flops and the refined elegance of a kitten heel. The result? You guessed it. Heeled flip-flops.
This fresh silhouette is gracing the pedicured toes of holiday-makers strolling the cobbled streets of the Amalfi Coast, as well as the feet of It-Girl city dwellers on their next Aperol Spritz run. Far more versatile than its flat counterpart, this elevated style echoes Y2K nostalgia with a nod to early 2000s office-core (think Gisele Bündchen in The Devil Wears Prada), all while maintaining a timeless appeal through its minimalist design.
When summer heat finally makes an appearance – questionable as that may be in the UK – we’re all eager to let our toes breathe. No one wants to be trudging around in sweaty socks. Enter the heeled flip-flop: offering the breeze of poolside footwear with just enough polish to secure you a seat at that 7pm dinner reservation.
© Getty ImagesThe resurgence manifested upon the spring/summer 2025 runways – Miu Miu saw graphic heeled flip-flops adorned with sharp edges styled with open-toe half socks and midi skirts. Meanwhile, Chloé showcased translucent jelly thong sandals that featured ankle straps with chiffon dresses. Over at Ferragamo, Maximilian Davis reimagined the silhouette with a ballet-inspired lens, detailing his thong heels with satin ribbons that gracefully wrapped around the calf.
© Getty ImagesA heeled flip-flop instantly elevates any summer ensemble – and the styling options are endless. Pair it with slouchy, low-rise jeans and a classic white tank for that effortless model-off-duty look. Or lean into preppy polish by styling this coveted shoe with your favourite capri trousers. For those on holiday, the kitten heel pairs perfectly with a breezy summer dress or adds a touch of chic to a mini skirt and bikini top for a stroll to the beach.
© Getty ImagesAnd don’t just take our word for it – fashion moguls everywhere are rocking this minimalist shoe trend. Bella Hadid leaned into the flip-flop-meets-capri look, serving a masterclass in 2000s-core, while Hailey Bieber and Miley Cyrus have both been spotted embracing the silhouette on the streets of New York City.
From sleek kitten-heel designs and supple leather sandals to beaded toe thongs and elegant ankle straps, this shoe comes in a wide array of styles. Explore our curated edit of the season’s best heeled flip-flops and find your perfect pair.
Best heeled flip-flops for SS25:
© Toteme40mm Kitten-Heel Flip-Flops
Toteme
Toteme’s black flip-flops from the spring/summer 2022 collection exude 90s minimalism. Crafted from supple Italian leather, this iteration features a sleek T-strap and a subtle kitten heel – quietly chic, with echoes of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s timeless style.
© Gianvito RossiShanti Thong 70
Gianvito Rossi
Gianvito Rossi’s embellished thong sandals feature a round toe and are crafted from leather and gold metallic-effect suede. Adorned with Chakra-inspired natural cabochon stones and gleaming gold studs, they’re the perfect statement piece for your next summer getaway.
© ZaraSatin Kitten-Heel Sandals
Zara
Zara's elegant kitten-heel sandals feature a refined square-toe design making them the perfect match for capris and a chic blazer on your next girls' night out at a wine bar.
© DunePlaited Kitten Heel Leather Court Shoes
Dune
Dune’s design channels effortless boho chic with its plaited leather straps and open-toe silhouette. Pair it with a white linen dress for a light, whimsical look that fits with the warm-weather days.
© MangoClassic Kitten-Heel Sandal In Brown
Mango
These simple brown sandals are the ideal match for a coordinating brown linen set, striking the ideal balance between office-ready polish and effortless style for after-work al fresco dining.
© Tony BiancoKrista Mule
Tony Bianco
If you're looking to add a touch of metallic edge to your evening ensemble, these Tony Bianco mules deliver a bold colourway while maintaining a sleek, refined silhouette.
© ReformationAmelia Thong Wedge Sandal
Reformation
Instead of the classic kitten heel, Reformation’s wedge heel offers a bold twist that’s sure to set you apart from the crowd.
© AnthropologieToe-Strap Kitten Heels
Anthropologie
Anthropologie’s sage green leather kitten heels are the perfect addition to your summer wardrobe. Style them with a crisp white dress for a fresh, effortlessly chic look this season.
© AsosIsh Kitten Heeled Sandal With Knitted Flower In Red
Topshop
If you're searching for a statement shoe, Topshop's red kitten heels – adorned with delicate floral appliqués – are the perfect choice.
© Jimmy ChooEtana Mule 50
Jimmy Choo
These chocolate brown Jimmy Choo kitten heels are the perfect choice to slip on for an evening dinner, combining style with uncompromised comfort.
How we chose:
Price: Our list boasts a myriad of prices, from beloved retail brands to luxury labels.
Style: Ranging from classic silhouettes to embellished designs, this round-up offers an array of cute styles to note.
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