Flip Flops: Are They Really Shoes?

on May 18, 2009 at 12:00 PM

During the summer months, I live in flip flops. I have several—one pair of Havaianas, one pair from JCrew, and a few of these from Old Navy (1 pair for $3.50 or 3 for $1.65).

I love going barefoot, so I think that's why I like wearing thongs so much. But I know lots of people think flip flops are too casual and not really appropriate footwear except in the shower or at the beach. One of my friends actually think it's gross and sloppy to see so much foot hanging out. What do you think?

About the author Kim Conte

has shoes that make people stop her on the street and ask "Where did you get those?" but it doesn't work for taxi cabs as she was hit by one ... and lived to tell the tale. She has more freckles than Lohan but way less attitude. And she's a fierce cook with tons of recipes to share -- and wishes she could share some with Bourdain.

Filed Under: shoes, style, trends

Comments (19)

aurorabunny

on May 18, 2009 at 12:58 PM

I wear them year round if I'm not barefoot. I can't stand wearing shoes. If people don't like it..meh too bad for them I guess.

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tyheamma

on May 18, 2009 at 1:21 PM

I don't think they are appropriate for church or a nice dinner out (and obviously not for formal events), but other than that, it doesn't bother me at all if people wear them. I'm not a big fan personally because I don't like shoes that go between my toes, but they really don't look much different from sandals to me.

jms124

on May 18, 2009 at 1:24 PM

I wear mine year round, too...even in the snow. I just hate shoes. I don't wear them at work or church or other places that heels are more appropriate. My mom and my sisters are the same way.

PatCarMom

on May 18, 2009 at 1:32 PM

I wear them a majority of the time. However, I think there are places they are inappropriate. Dont get me wrong, I LOVE shoes, but I do not like having my feet covored when it is hot.

I own about 20 pairs. If it is above 50* and it is casual, I am in flops!

justgrape723

on May 18, 2009 at 1:33 PM

personally I do not care for flip flops.

But that is just me. I put them in the same category as sandals. I do not think they should be worn to church, weddings, nice dinners out etc etc. But for casual wear if you like them then wear them......

bltcahill

on May 18, 2009 at 1:35 PM

I got married in thong sandals, and was maid of honor in thong wedges. I live in flip flops.

Jerichos_Mommy

on May 18, 2009 at 1:43 PM

Quote

aurorabunny May. 18, 2009 at 12:58 PM

What she said

RanaAurora

on May 18, 2009 at 2:21 PM

Who cares what other people think? I think some of their strappy sandals or more expensive sandals are ugly as crap. At least my flip flops are comfortable, practical, and easy to put on. Can they say the same about their "nicer" sandals?

I love my flip flops. I have an Adidas pair with memory-foam type stuff under my foot. They're comfortable enough that I wear them when I go on two mile walks around my neighborhood. If they'd that nice, why would I NOT wear them because someone else doesn't like them?

on May 18, 2009 at 4:47 PM

Oh speaking of worlds ugliest shoes, two words: GLADIATOR SANDALS. I should get a life time free pass to wear my flip-flops (well I do anyways) for having to look at people wearing those for a whole year thinking they were being trendy.