What makes a shoe have “it”? Does it come down to virality? Some quality that separates a style from its competitors? Perhaps a combination of the two, with the unique selling point compounded by the fact that, all of a sudden and sometimes quite out of the blue, a singular piece of footwear dominates sartorial discourse, making it the most in-demand purchase of the season. But it takes more than speaking about a shoe to give it a gravitas truly worthy of this epithet.
This year, no category has enjoyed more exposure than sandals, meaning that the pairs perched at the top of every fashion person’s wish list are a balmy silhouette often slipped into when the sun is out. We hear your hesitation—why are people coveting something considerably flimsier and less practical when there are so many stylish trainers, flats and loafers out there? Still, come hell or high water, style insiders and fashion designers alike have made a case for these shoes to merit being dubbed an it sandal of 2025.
The 7 “It” Sandals of 2025
Indeed, if you pay any attention to the topics being discussed in the circles of those who are in the know, you’ll be across a few particular recurring elements that the it sandals of 2025 have in common. Namely, these summer sandals have a playful texture like suede, jelly or studs, or offer a new spin on classic minimal shapes.
Currently leading the charge is none other than The Row’s Dune grosgrain flip-flops. A successor to the Olsen Twins’ platform Ginza styles, they rival the popularity and ubiquity of the widespread Haviana brand, but are offered with a £630 price tag for those discerning shoppers who want a pair of thongs (as they’re dubbed down under) a cut above the rest.
Then, there’s Miu Miu’s Riviere cord and leather rope sandals. After strolling down the brand’s runway during the spring/summer 2024 season of Paris Fashion Week, the pair kickstarted a movement that saw the technical nylon rope used by rock climbers and surfers alike become a desirable luxury object.
The most common thread that makes these sandals noteworthy is their penchant for stirring conversation. Irrespective of whether you love them or hate them, these are styles that are instantly recognisable and constantly stealing the spotlight, making them modern classics that warrant every accolade. Curious to know what other pairs have earned top spot? Uncover every it sandal of 2025, along with a rationale for their cult status, ahead.
1. The Row Dune Classic Sandal
Style Notes: Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen are purveyors of the finer things in life; fine-knit tops woven with the most sumptuous cashmere, softly structured leather bags and, as it turns out, designer sandals that can sell out in an instant. Of the latter, the latest style to pique mainstream interests is the Dune flip-flop, a rubber style featuring two ribbon straps that thread along the top of the foot. In the weeks since they’ve been released, they’ve graduated from headline fodder dissecting the eye-watering price tag to becoming the latest off-duty shoe for the likes of Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner. Jonathon Bailey even wore them while promoting his latest film, Jurassic World Rebirth in London. Is there anything more British than wearing open-toed shoes with floor-skimming jeans? We think not.
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The Row
Dune Leather Flip Flops
If you’re questioning what it is about these shoes that earns them an almost £700 valuation, it comes down to the quality Italian leather and ribbed texture.
The Row
Dune Grosgrain Thong Sandals
Red flip-flops inject such a bold element to more pared-back and muted ensembles.
THE ROW
Dune Cotton-Blend Grosgrain Platform Flip Flops
THE ROW
Dune Knot Cotton-Blend Grosgrain Sandals
If you’re dubious about dropping a paycheck on flip-flops, perhaps this style with a wrap-around ankle shape might take your fancy.
2. Christopher Esber Jo Thong Sandals
Style Notes: Another flip-flop of note is Christopher Esber’s Jo jelly sandal. This lollie-esque take is designed by Australia’s very own king of skin. Perhaps an ode to his Sydney upbringing or inspired by the Parisienne’s he passes while commuting through the City of Lights when staging his bi-annual collection presentations, the Jo style has swiftly been adopted as an elevated and youthful it sandal of 2025 no thanks to the pastel PVC material and wave-ready profile.
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CHRISTOPHER ESBER
Jo Pvc Flip Flops
Pink and black is such an underrated summer colour combination. I adore how this soft pairing takes me back to the sweets of our childhood, making this pair feel both grownup and girlish.
CHRISTOPHER ESBER
Jo Pvc Flip Flops
These have been spotted on the shores of California, the sands of Greece and every chic beach in between.
CHRISTOPHER ESBER
Jo Pvc Flip Flops
Much has been discussed about how green will be the shade of this season, so get ahead of the curve with this soft khaki.
Christopher Esber
Jo Thong Sandals
You can’t go wrong with a clear pair of jellies.
3. Chloé Tpu Jelly Sandals
(Image credit: @ariellecharnas)
Style Notes: Chloé sandals are undoubtedly one of the best designer sandals out there. Irrespective of the designer at the helm, the bohemian maison always delivers a style worthy of our desires. This season, after jelly straps were soft-launched in Chemena Kamali’s cork wedges, the Tpu heeled jelly sandals have arrived to serve us through summer. Perfect for Ibiza days and New York nights, this style features a flip-flop strap, ankle buckle and curved toe shape that moulds to the natural contours of the feet.
(Image credit: Launch Metrics)
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This Pepto Bismal pink is the vibrant answer to the gentle powder pinks we’ve been seeing a lot of lately.
The ideal flesh-toned finish to any jeans and a nice top outfit.
Pair with floaty mini dresses as they did on the catwalk.
These are like the summer equivalent of the Miu Miu satin ballet flats.
4. A.Emery Jalen Sandals
Style Notes: While Australian brands like DISSH, Faithfull, Posse and St. Agni are household names, one unsung label from down under that has received the same treatment is A.Emery. Perhaps this is because of fashion insiders’ penchant for gatekeeping when they’re onto something good, but the brand’s Jalen sandal is finally getting the recognition it deserves. It’s not new by any means, but is truly timeless, making it not only a must-know, but a must-have.
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A.EMERY
Jalen Leather Sandals
So many Who What Wear editors own this leather style.
A.EMERY
Jalen Suede Sandals
The smooth grain of the straps makes this style one of the most comfortable luxury sandals on the market.
A.EMERY
Jalen Suede and Leather Sandals
This stunning burnt sienna pairs beautifully with dark wash denim.
5. Miu Miu Riviere Cord Sandals
Style Notes: Ever since Miuccia Prada sent her first pair of ballet slippers down the runway, the Italian designer has never faltered in delivering an iconic shoe, season after season. The latest? The Riviere Cord and Leather Sandals. Worn by the likes of Gigi Hadid and Troye Sivan on the runway when it was styled with cut-off socks and bandages, the roped style has spawned a thousand spin-offs but still remains an inimitable original..
(Image credit: Launch Metrics)
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Miu Miu
Riviere Cord and Leather Sandals
Miu Miu
Riviere Cord and Leather Sandals
Miu Miu
Riviere Cord and Leather Sandals
Invest in the brown now and you’ll wear them all the way through till autumn.
For a dressier look, try this T-bar rhinestone iteration.
6. Ancient Greek Sandals Saionara Jelly Sandals
Style Notes: Another flip-flop shape that’s caught the eye of style savants around the world is the Ancient Greek Sandals Saionara jelly flip-flop. The reason this style stands out? It’s versatility. The jelly strap ensures a beach-ready look, but the soft rubber sole makes them equally appropriate for the city as they are the coast. In fact, I’d contend there are more people wearing them in and about style hubs like London and Manhattan than they are in the Mediterranean.
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ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS
Saionara Jelly Pvc Flip Flops
Wear with a flirty mini dress when abroad to be the best-dressed beach goer.
ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS
Saionara Jelly Pvc Flip Flops
Wear under wool trousers when in the office for a The Row-coded work outfit.
ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS
Saionara Leather Flip Flops
Ancient Greek Sandals
Jelly Flip Flop
Honey tones are so sleek for warm days.
7. Gimaguas x Havaianas Flip-Flops
Style Notes: First come the studded bags, then come the studded flip-flops? Only a madcap genius collaboration like the one between Havaianas and Barcelona-based label Gimaguas could dream this up. While they’re not officially for public sale yet, they earn a spot on this list for meeting the criteria that any It sandal of 2025 has to meet. Not only did the trend encourage thousands of TikTok users to DIY their own studded flip-flops—sending droves of thumbtack push pins through the soles of unsuspecting soles—but it was swiftly adopted by members of the celebrity style set. (See: Kylie Jenner, among others.)
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Until we can purchase the style, we’re settling for this expensive-looking high-street pair.
Free People
Sona Thong Sandals
A more subtle take on the style.
MANGO
Suede Sandals With Eyelet Strap
A touch of suede can always enhance any look.
MANGO
Studded Leather Sandals
If you love slides, you’ll want to try this to elevate the simple slip-on style.
