Summer Flip Flop Report 2009

Camellia Flower Flip Flops ($24.50, J.Crew)

What is summer without a gazillion pairs of colorful rubber flip flops? Read on for a comparison of  three popular brands offering this must-have summer staple. 

J.Crew probably offers the most sophisticated flip flops of the three. Most of the colors available are reserved hues of black, brown, and gray. Compared to three or four summers ago, J. Crew’s answer to casual summer footwear is becoming more glamorous, with shiny metallic accents and floral details becoming more and more common on this season’s selection.

These fancier pairs are the most expensive of the bunch, but the glam factor is definitely worth it. So, if you like to wear flip flops out to dinner or for bar hopping, then J.Crew is your best bet. The best part is that you will not be sacrificing comfort when wearing these pretty flippies–they have a squishy sole that cushions your feet.

Classic Flip Flops ($10, J.Crew)

Metallic Mesh Flip Flops ($36.50, J.Crew)

Old Navy offers the most affordable option of the three. Looking at the Old Navy website, I was surprised to see how many different styles and colors are available this year. The three pairs pictured below are just a taste of what there is to choose from. Best part? Old Navy is currently running a promotion, in which buying two or more pairs reduces the price of each pair to two or three bucks.

Old Navy flip flops are super comfortable, however they may not last you more than one season if you wear them religiously. As a result, Old Navy is a good choice for practical flip flops–think trips to the beach or cleaning the house (which for me won’t happen because I normally use maid services boston as my cleaning team)–that you expect to get dirty and won’t mind tossing once summer ends.

Womens Beaded Flip Flops ($6.50, Old Navy)

Chain Link Flip Flops ($6.50, Old Navy)

Womens New Flip Flops ($3.50, Old Navy)

As for our final candidate, suffice it to say that I swear by Havaianas. One of the things I love about their flip flops is the solid sole, which does not allow your foot to leave a deep imprint in it after just a few weeks of wear. Plus, the sole is ribbed, so it provides plenty of traction. If you are scared of falling flat on your butt as you step out of the pool or while running in the rain, this is the summer footwear for you.

Havaianas don’t lack in the style department either. You can choose from simple solid colors, cute patterns or even quirky themes such as Wonder Woman. You will pay at least $20 for Havaianas but this expenditure definitely has the StealThisDress! stamp of approval. Providing both quality and style, Havaianas don’t disappoint.

Slim Flip Flop ($24, Havaianas)

Wonder Woman Flip Flop ($35, Havaianas)

Rretro Flip Flop ($22, Havaianas)

What other brands do you guys love for flip flops?