fashion

CULT BUY: The $55 hybrid shoe that everyone needs this summer.

Thongs have grown up.

While the rest of us were busy thinking thongs (the kind you put on your feet, thank you very much) were just a flat sole with a plastic prong to keep them attached to said feet, fashion people have been even busier giving them a serious makeover.

Some have come out better than others. Iconic Brazilian thong brand Havaianas are amongst those. You see, they don’t just make flip flops anymore , with plenty of other surprising shoe options on offer too.

I stumbled upon the Origine espadrilles, one of their latest designs at a recent showing and have not been able to get them out of my head. I’m calling it – they’re the ultimate hybrid summer shoe.

Give a warm welcome to the feel of a thong combined with the look of a fancy espadrille. Genius.

As someone who grew up in the UK where wearing thongs is not as readily taught (or needed) from birth as it is in Australia, I’ve never quite mastered the effortless look of wearing thongs. I’m constantly tripping over. These solve that problem.

Available in navy blue and cream and retailing for $55, they’re flat shoes with the ballet-style ribbons to tie up as you please. From the beach to the bar (or pub), they’re summer footwear no-one will turn you away for.

If slip ons are more your thing, they are also available in an array of colours and designs without the ribbons. Think striped, coral and topical print.

They’ll go with all your outfits dressy or casual and suit the French Riviera as much as your local park.

They’re fancy, but not TOO fancy that they’re uncomfortable or feel you have to save them for ‘best’ occasions only.

Sign us up.

Related Stories

Recommended

Top Comments

Janelle Claire Berner 7 years ago

Personally I think they’re ugly!


fightofyourlife 7 years ago

They look nice but starting at $55? Pretty steep for canvas sewn onto a thong base!

I do actually wish more flats had a rubber inner sole like that though. I end up having to buy new inner soles for most of my shoes, because they start to peel up and rub on my foot, causing blisters. Rubber seems like it would be fairly sturdy and comfortable.