There’s no use talking about the latest women’s sandal and flip flop fashion trend since its as fickle as the ficklest person who set them. But if you only base your choice only on how current your footwear will look, you might as well cover your eyes, raise a pointed finger, and play the roulette inside the ladies shoe section.

There are just three things to keep in mind when scouting for sandals and flip flops. Comfort should always come first, of course. Walk around the store for a few minutes and try to feel if the straps chafe your skin. Try to do your shopping late in the afternoon or early in the evening when your feet is at your largest to get the best fit.

A good pair is also one that is versatile. This means that it should go well with either jeans or skirt or capris. Better yet if it matches at least two of your bags. If you’re stingy on spending, base your choice on how it ties up with clothes that you already have, not the other way around.

Finally, pick a pair that suits your lifestyle. It’s quite tempting to go with the latest footwear fad, but if it’s not you, then set your eyes elsewhere. You’ll be much more confident walking outside, knowing that you look snazzy in your own style.

Types of Sandals

With sandals and flip flops, the foot is exposed to scrutiny. This is why buying them should entail (1) a careful examination on how well the foot matches the sandals, and (2) a solemn oath to regularly get your nails done.

Flip flops

Slippers or thong sandals, whatever you call them, for as long as they make that flopping sound when you walk, it’s a flip flop. Much has changed in them since the high-end variety entered the market. From being the easily forgotten and easily replaced rubber footwear, flip flops are now a fashion statement, and a very comfortable one at that. Some brands even offer healthy benefits from wearing them. But as these claims aren’t clinically proven, you’d be better off going for comfort and durability.

Wedge Sandals

There’s something quite cosmopolitan about wearing wedge sandals that makes them go well with almost any outfit. They’re recommended for girls with wide ankles because the thick heels make them look more slender. Remember, though, that wearing them entitles the user to all the benefits and, unfortunately, all the difficulties of wearing heeled shoes, plus they’re a bit heavier than the rest.

Birkenstock

They’re not exactly the girliest of girly sandals but Birkenstocks do have a lot to offer when it comes to comfort --- well, not until after the first few months, at least. These German sandals are famous for their contours which are designed to shape the soles of the feet --- a feature that has been reproduced by other types of sandals and even flip flops. Being mostly made of leather, they’re quite durable as well. So once you get used to them, they can take you anywhere.

Gladiator sandals

Gladiator sandals come with a lace that winds up to the leg in a certain pattern. This gives it a somewhat sultry look to it. Who would ever thought that modern women would look so classy in a warrior’s footwear?

Mules

Mules or the open-toed, backless variety of sandals are also known as step ins. They’re quite comfortable to wear because your feet can easily slide in and out of the sandals if your toes need a bit of flexing. But since it’s backless, the ankle-heel proportion should be observed.

Slingback sandals

Slingbacks are so called because of the strap that secures the back end of the foot. This makes them more stable compared to the other varieties. And since it encloses the foot more than, say a mule, it’s likely to pass as a formal footwear.

Platform sandals

Platform sandals have uniquely thick soles that are usually accompanied by high and thick heels. This means that wearing them require an impeccable sense of balance making them a very bold yet classy choice. Be warned as this type is only for women who are willing to go the extra mile --- or inch.

Espadrilles

Hailing from Spain, espadrille sandals are usually brightly colored heels or flats that go well with flowing skirts or capris. With proper color matching, this type is best for women going for an exotic and vibrant look.

Kitten heel sandals

Simple yet fashionable, kitten heel sandals are characterized by their short heels seldom exceeding an inch. They are for women who’re not that into all the trouble that high heels bring. They are also often a very safe choice for all types and shapes of feet.