The Sandal of the Summer
(Ethical and sustainable) chunky flip flops — SS20.
(Ethical and Sustainable) Chunky Flip Flops — SS20.
The Row Ginza Leather Platform Flip Flops | Shop
The chunky flip flop is everywhere: we’re truly reliving the style icons of the 90’s and 2000’s this summer. The pair in question can be found at The Row, the all-encompassing brand by the Olsen twins. It makes perfect sense that the icons of said generations are offering up this highly sought-after silhouette.
Considering this pair is widely sold out, and also considering the price tag on a one-season-wear pair of shoes, we’ve pulled together a selection of our favorite chunky summer sandals from sustainable and ethical retailers at a variety of price points. *Updated in September 2023.
Vagabond — Bonnie Sandal | $110 | Shop
Vagabond’s 1.9” platform sandal comes in at the most similar to The Row’s pair which features a 1” platform. Vagabond is committed to sustainable practices including materials, processing chemicals and emissions, as well as ethical labor, which you can read more about here.
Alohas Overcast Platform Flip Flop | $210
Crafted in Spain from supple white leather and set atop contrasting platform soles, the wide straps and cushioned footbeds make them a great choice for all-day wear. Pair them with a floaty midi dress to nail that effortless summer look you’ll be happy to wear on repeat.
Arizona Love — Trekky Sandal | $220 | Shop
Arizona Love sandals are handmade at the brand’s workshop in Paris. They focus on producing them locally to minimize their ecological footprint. They offer many different prints and patterns— this faux-pearl embellished platform happens to be our favorite.
Dear Frances — kin sandal | $330 | Shop
With a nod to minimalist dressing and wardrobe staples, The Kin Sandal is set on a sturdy rubber midsole and refined Italian leather outsole. With a supple toe post and smooth calfskin straps for supreme comfort, they will effortlessly ground a Summer slip dress and pair perfectly with all day denims. Made by hand in Italy. Read more about the brand’s ethical practices.
Ancient Greek Sandals — Kansiz sandal | $190 | Shop
Ancient Greek Sandals are handmade locally by skilled craftsmen using traditional techniques that have existed for centuries. A raw, yet feminine aesthetic distinguishes this new sandal brand. The chemical free, natural tan leather ages beautifully with time and wear.
Aeydē — Chrissy sandal | $205 | Shop
Aeydē's creations are a minimalist's dream. Made in family-owned factories in Italy from soft leather, these 'Chrissy' slides have three straps that cross neatly over your foot - the uppermost one is partially elasticated, so you'll be able to slip them on with ease. A subtle, neutral pedicure will complement the rich 'Hazelnut' hue.
Seychelles — Low Key Slide | $109 | Shop
Seychelles works with only a handful of factories in Italy, India and China, having built relationships that have existed for decades. Part of their global family, they’ve committed to these factories because they adhere to strict social compliance standards and follow international and local labor laws. Read more on their mission.
We hope that you enjoyed this post and found a few new mindfully crafted footwear brands to support in the process.
Disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you decide to buy any of the products I refer to and promote. All opinions are our own.