Remember the good old childhood days when all you had was a pair of flip flops you’ve hurriedly put on to go play with your friends? These oh-so-comfy footwear options never left the fashion scene and the pandemic only made them ever-popular. From Kareena Kapoor Khan to Ananya Pandey, everyone’s flaunting stylish flip flops and you shouldn’t be far behind this trend. So here are some of the latest pairs to add to your footwear collection straight from a desi shoe brand!
In conversation with TC46, Gaurav Chopra, the co-founder of Solethreads, shares the story behind flip flops, 5 outfit recommendations to try with unique styles and key shopping tips to help you get started.
The Flip Flops Of Today, The Transformation Of Tomorrow
Across the world, and since time immemorial people have been wearing these modest shoes that consist of a sole, and with a strap that goes across the top of the foot in some form or another.
Interesting Fact
The name ‘flip flops’ may be attributed to the 1950s, and to the United States of America, but flip flops have been around for at least 6,000 years and ancient Egyptians seem to have been wearing them since 4,000 BCE.
Since the pandemic, a “new normal” has settled in, and we’re seeing not just a new way of living, but also dressing—one that’s governed by active comfort and functionality. Be it work from home, yoga on your balcony or an easy staycation, it’s all about catching your breath, being relaxed, and finding your calm. And it’s so much easier to walk down this path in a pair of soul-comforting flip-flops.
Flip flops were once associated with the indoors, tropical weather and the beaches. However, with changing trends and a new-found all-weather fashion appeal, they are being adopted unstintingly by the fashion-conscious, and younger consumers, as ‘every day and everywhere’ wear. They have, in essence, become the footwear of choice, across occasions.
It is therefore important that the purchase of open footwear is a progressively high-involvement decision for the consumer. An innovative product with a strong value proposition will beat out the competition. It is, therefore, in this highly competitive market, that the products are both innovation and technology-led. And they go through a rigorous process that involves testing multiple concepts with consumers’ rapid product prototyping and ensuring that the final product exceeds customer expectations.
5 Outfit Recommendations To Match Your Flip Flops
For most of us, a successful look comes from striking the right balance. As such, it’s important to plan a comfy look via outfits where the top and bottom complement each other. If you’re wearing a loose shirt, try pairing it with tight pants, and if you’re wearing wide-leg pants or a full skirt, consider partnering it with a fitted or cropped top. Here is an ultimate active-comfort style guide to consider indoors and outdoors:
1. The Comfy Casual
When heading out for the day, keep it comfy. A classy strappy jumpsuit and a pair of flip-flops that comfortably hug your feet like the snuggle bug in you. That isn’t asking for too much, is it? Sporting a statement chain necklace and bag won’t hurt your personality a bit. The ultimate accessories to flaunt: minimal earrings, and sunglasses.
2. Summer Edition
Whether you’re going to a friend’s birthday party or date night, you can don a casual outfit with a sassy twist. Short or long skirts and a summer-cool top or tee are an easy way to keep yourself comfy while looking incredibly stylish during balmy summer nights. Complete the look with a pair of luxuriously posh and plush women’s slides that offer squishy soft comfort for your soles!
3. The Versatile One
Enjoy the warmer days in a lovely romper. Whether you’re a fan of bold patterns or aztec ones, you can’t beat a romper in a casual setting that goes well with a pair of bouncy flip flops. Depending on the occasion, you can dress up or down this outfit with simple accessories.
4. Boho Chic
Long dresses, maxis and everything in between – classic and awesome. Freshen up an outfit by rocking a pair of cute slides or flip flops inspired by elegant hues or summer prints that are equally effortless and sassy for your feet. Up the ante with delicate accessories like drop earrings or an elegant bracelet, your sunglasses, big jute bag and you can go from a flea market to a cafe in no time!
5. The Errand Run
Heading to the organic food market or house party or better still, a quick run to the grocery store? A simple T-shirt can take the edge off a fancy outfit – rock it with a pair of thong-strap flip flops in vibrant colour, and you’ll be ready to go anywhere. Add bold accessories to complete the look, and you’ll be ready for almost any event!
Tips To Help You Shop For Flip Flops With Ease
Consumers have become more discerning, and it is natural to meld aesthetic appeal with the latest technology, so as to provide flip flops that are comfortable, stylish and enduring. Flip flops need to, not just accentuate the joy of walking, they need to elevate the experience. Comfort and functionality are penultimate in today’s day and age.
Here are a few critical points to keep in mind when purchasing a pair of flip flops for all occasions:
- Soft and comfortable, cushy footbed, lightweight and designed to cradle your arches for a comfortable walk for long durations
- A superior bounce in every step and acts as a cushion between your feet and the terrain below
- Skid-resistant outsole for a better grip
- The toe post and strap should be ultra-soft so that the skin doesn’t feel irritable