The first days of autumn don't mean it's time to pack away your summer wardrobe at the back of the closet. If September stays warm, flip-flops — sandals with a strap between the toes — can confidently remain part of your everyday looks. RBC-Ukraine's entertainment project Styler broke down five current combinations that take this familiar beach footwear beyond the "only for the sea" label and fit it into city outfits. Below are the key tricks that help you stay comfortable without slipping into an overly "beachy" look.
Flip-Flops and Wide-Leg Pants: A Relaxed Contrast
Pairing flip-flops with wide-leg pants may seem unexpected, but it's exactly what creates a modern, relaxed look. The formula is simple: loose-fitting pants plus a simple fitted top or T-shirt. Open footwear adds lightness to the outfit and keeps it from looking too formal. It's a great option when you want comfort but your usual summer outfits already feel too "beachy."
A Maxi Skirt and a Simple Top
Another workable trick is to pair flip-flops with a maxi skirt and a basic top. The long skirt makes the look more feminine, while the open footwear keeps it effortless. Solid, unadorned pieces work especially well here: complete the outfit with a small bag and minimalist jewelry so you don't overload the silhouette.
Denim Shorts and a Shirt on Top
The most obvious, yet no less stylish, combination is denim shorts, a simple T-shirt or tank top, and flip-flops. It's a comfortable look for a walk or a day of rest. To make the outfit more interesting, throw on a loose shirt on top: it adds structure and comes in handy when the temperature drops a little in the evening.
Capris and a Blazer: A Polished Top and Relaxed Footwear
For a more unusual option, try pairing flip-flops with capris and a blazer. The contrast between a fairly polished top and maximally relaxed footwear makes the look contemporary. A simple top or T-shirt under the blazer is enough — in this combination, the flip-flops don't look like an afterthought but rather add a sense of ease.
Romantic Dresses and Open Footwear
You can even wear flip-flops with romantic dresses. For example, a light lace dress paired with simple flip-flops creates an interesting contrast between femininity and everyday wear. This look works well for warm early-autumn weather: the dress remains the centerpiece, while the comfortable shoes make it less festive and more modern.
Bottom line: if September still feels more like summer, don't rush to tuck your flip-flops deep into the closet. With the right pieces, this footwear fits effortlessly into stylish outfits even after the calendar summer has ended. This article was prepared based on a publication by the Styler project (styler.rbc.ua).