As you're kicking off last season’s boots, the onset of the summer season invites a little more frivolity in the footwear department. What could offer a better way to get into the spirit, then, than a pair of designer wedge thongs?
Boasting all of the comfort of thong sandals, this style also takes things to new heights, both literally and metaphorically speaking, which is why they’re quickly becoming fashion’s new favourite footwear, cropping up in the ensembles of style icons like Jeanne Damas and Miranda Kerr.
For the past few years now, designers have been revisiting traditionally 'ugly' shoes and reinventing them for the contemporary fashion landscape, which ultimately reflects a shift in consumer consciousness, too — it's very clear that comfort is now king. Increasingly, we’re moving away from the days of 'killer heels' and towards footwear that is stylish but still practical enough for fast-paced modern life. This is the movement that’s given rise to the great Birkenstock revival, by way of designer brands such as Marni and Robert Clergerie, and is now also sparking renewed interest in thongs for women, with a fashionable bent. Enter wedge thongs, a style that’s even more versatile than most other sandals. This means you can dress them up for fashion parties, down for family barbecues or even make them work for those days you didn’t quite prepare for. In other words, these elevated staples have got your summer wardrobe sorted.
The fashion party
The great thing about wedge thong sandals is that they’ve got all the elegance of a high heel, with none of the discomfort. This is especially important once party season rolls around — all those fun engagements are best navigated when you’re not on the verge of toppling over. The same goes for fashion week or really any occasion where you spend a great deal of time on your feet – stability is everything. This is where Jeanne Damas turns to the footwear style, teaming hers with a boldly printed jumpsuit like those by Stella McCartney.
So why not consider trading in your stilts for a pair of wedge thongs this season or at least adding them to your summer wardrobe rotation? Your feet will definitely thank you for it. Of course, fashion parties are less about tattered ruggers shorts with thongs and more about a refined approach overall. Fashion blogger Natalie Joos styles a white pair with a scene-stealing red minidress, for example, proving that using monochromatic colour in this way can be a great approach to your fashion party aesthetic.
The family barbecue
Thong sandals with a wedge heel can also work well when you’re keeping things casual for a family barbecue. This allows you to really pare things back in the wardrobe department and let your fashionable footwear take charge. Of course, this isn’t your sock-and-sandal-wearing uncle’s pair of thong shoes we’re talking about here, but an elegantly embellished take in the manner of Chloé. Ultimately, choosing a pair with a little character will see you transition seamlessly from Bondi to Manly.When working out what to wear with your new shoes, think denim skirts with printed Saint Laurent blouses, for example. Or turn to Miranda Kerr for inspiration, who opts for a metallic hue like gold when brightening up her jeans-and-camisole look for daytime. Suffice to say that your wedge thongs will work wonders with almost all of the basics you already have in your wardrobe, extending their versatile appeal right throughout the summer months.
The days you didn't quite prepare for
Knowing what you’ve got on for the day ahead is often a good jumping-off point when planning what you’re going to wear. Sometimes, though, weekend days in particular can take an unexpected turn, leaving you unprepared for the dress code at hand. Fortunately, styling wedge thongs right means that you can offset this awkwardness with finessed balance – especially as they’re among the most comfortable shoes you can own.
The chunky sole of wedge thong sandals lends a little contemporary grit to feminine skirt and dress styles, which puts you in good stead for a day of market-hopping that stretches out into a night of band watching in Surry Hills. Consider a black pair of women's thongs by Givenchy in order to toughen up those floral Zimmermann dresses. Even if you end up harbourside at Opera Bar, your sturdy footwear will keep your look adaptable enough to have you covered.