6 Playful Pairs to Try

When early aughts-inspired jelly shoes emerged with gusto a few summers ago, we wouldn’t have blamed you if you thought it was merely a fad. Given the trend cycle, you never quite know what will stick, and shoes made from PVC plastic may not sound especially high-fashion. However, designers are proving otherwise, breathing new life into the sometimes-polarizing style. Search “jelly sandals” on luxury retailers like Farfetch and Neiman Marcus, and you’ll find dozens of chic iterations from powerhouses including Tory Burch, Bottega Veneta, and Valentino. And, ICYMI, fisherman-style jellies are no longer hogging all the attention: This summer, jelly flip-flops are all the rage.

Combining two buzzy footwear trends in one, the shoes are taking fashion by storm right now. Scroll onward to read more about the jelly flip-flops trend, including why it’s picking up speed and several modern ways to style the look.

About the Trend

It’s been three years or so since jelly shoes—which, for many of us, conjure up memories of carefree summer days in childhood—crept back into the fashion zeitgeist. One brand responsible for the shoe’s revival is Melissa, having launched its Y2K-coded “Real Jelly” collection, made from 100% recyclable PVC, in 2022. Then, Coach joined in on the fun, incorporating a wide range of fisherman jelly sandals into its spring 2023 line.

Things really snowballed from there: Last summer, the trend hit a fever pitch, in large part thanks to The Row, which debuted a caged style in its spring 2024 collection. Smaller footwear brands like Ancient Greek Sandals, Larroudé, and Tkees soon followed suit, and even Skims capitalized on the trend with its polarizing see-through jelly flats (which were such a hit that they completely sold out).

And lest we forget about the flip-flop comeback. In recent years, fashion enthusiasts have rekindled their love for the thong silhouette, and rubber sandals of the Havaianas variety are no longer relegated to afternoons at the pool. Believe it or not, the casual shoes have become a street style mainstay: Just look to the recent Copenhagen Fashion Week looks for proof. The silhouette of yore has also gotten an elevated makeover by way of heeled flip-flops, a favorite among style stars like Hailey Bieber and Miley Cyrus.

This summer, designers are providing us with quite the sartorial treat, merging the two nostalgic footwear trends. It wouldn’t be a stretch to say that Chemena Kamali, Chloé’s creative director, propelled jelly flip-flops to cult status after debuting the label’s kitten heel style, which comes in a medley of punchy hues, on its spring 2025 runway. (After all, she singlehandedly resurrected the boho-chic aesthetic from the early aughts.) The sandals clearly struck a chord with fashion girls, seeing as they’re all over Instagram this season.

And we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention The Row’s now-sold-out jelly flip-flops. The brand was ahead of the game, too, dropping the style in spring 2024. Sofia Richie Grainge endorsed the blue pair on the ‘gram, styling her flip-flops with a coordinating blue matching set and black-and-white bikini. For a slightly more wallet-friendly option, style enthusiasts are flocking to Ancient Greek Sandals’ $215 Saionara jelly flip-flops.

The Appeal

Nostalgia has been the driving force behind many of today’s top trends, and jelly flip-flops are no exception. The playful shoes follow a long list of ‘90s and early 2000s throwback looks currently stealing the spotlight (again), including polka dots, peplum tops, and capri pants. One reason jelly flip-flops are so appealing is the silhouette’s lighthearted, childhood-inspired connotation. Many of us remember wearing a cute pair of jelly shoes to summer camp or on a playdate, making the shoes an instantly sweet blast from the past. Like many alongside it, the trend reminds us of simpler times and serves as a comforting form of dopamine dressing.

The jelly flip-flop trend also ties into the industry’s movement towards maximalist style—an antithesis to “quiet luxury.” This summer ushered in a slew of more-is-more, joy-sparking looks, such as retro-inspired swim shorts, charm necklaces, and metallic dresses. When the world feels unpredictable, having fun with fashion is an easy, no-fail way to put a smile on your face—and there’s arguably nothing that’ll put some pep in your step quite like a jelly flip-flop, whether you opt for a simple black pair or a pop of hot pink or deep purple.

How to Style

Jelly flip-flops are surprisingly versatile and sure to add a jolt of personality to any warm-weather ‘fit. Should you wish to dress them up for an evening out, try pairing the footwear with a polished drop-waist dress or a blazer and jeans combo. Of-the-moment pieces like a micro-mini skirt or a graphic tee or tank feel lively alongside the joyfully unserious shoes. Accessories can make or break your look, so consider piling on some chic jewelry and toting around a luxe leather bag.

If you’re wearing your jellies to the pool or beach on a scorching hot afternoon, opt for a summery, breathable crochet cover-up. You also can’t go wrong with a ribbed tank and jorts mash-up when it’s especially toasty outside. 

Jelly flip-flops pair nicely with a range of different summer aesthetics, too. For example, as Chloé showed us, they beautifully complement the of-the-moment bohemian vibe. Take styling cues from the catwalk and team yours with a voluminous frock or ruffled one-piece swimsuit. If the fisherman trend is more your speed, wear your jellies alongside a nautical striped top and a boat-ready bucket hat.

The Best Jelly Flip Flops to Shop

End summer on a stylish note with a quirky-cute pair of jelly flip-flops—you may just find yourself rewearing them into fall, for as long as the heat lingers. Below, find six must-have styles on the market this season.