Don’t Like Flip-Flops? Women in Their 30s and 40s Wear This Elegant Flat Sandal Instead

Flip-flops have officially ditched their bad reputation, especially in New York, where many locals had sworn off them until the last few years, when they came roaring back into fashion’s good graces thanks to Scandi girls and a few elevated styles from the likes of The Row and Toteme. That’s not to say, though, that the flat shoe style is for everyone. Whether they’re trendy or not, some people still refuse to wear them, preferring to opt for other flat sandals, and that’s their right. Fortunately, there are plenty of chic flip-flop alternatives, with one particular style a beloved choice among women in their 30s and 40s, from Jennifer Lawrence to Meghan Markle.

The former recently wore a pair in New York City, where it’s blisteringly hot out, calling for easy, comfortable sandals. Lawrence was spotted on her way to dinner, nearby Altro Paradiso in SoHo. For the occasion, she chose a cropped graphic tee, an ivory maxi slip skirt, and a pair of cognac-brown toe-loop sandals. She finished off the look with a burgundy vintage Fendi Baguette bag.

Toe-Loop Sandals on Jennifer Lawrence

Jennifer Lawrence was spotted at dinner in New York City. The actress kept it effortlessly chic in a casual gray T-shirt, a long white skirt, and brown toe-loop sandals for the evening outing. — (Image credit: Backgrid)

On Jennifer Lawrence: Vintage Fendi bag

Lawrence is far from the first A-lister to wear the toe-loop sandal trend instead of flip-flops or other sandal styles. For years, Meghan Markle has frequented a pair by Emme Parsons that features a jewelry-like toe bauble, wearing them with everything from denim shorts to jersey jumpsuits. (Specifically, hers are called the Laurie Sandals ($525), and they come in many colors.)

Toe-Loop Sandals on Meghan Markle

Meghan Markle watches Prince Harry at a polo game. Markle wore a denim shirt and shorts with toe-loop sandals. — (Image credit: Backgrid)

On Meghan Markle: Dôen shorts; Emme Parsons New Laurie Sandals ($525)

As a result of high-profile fans like these, toe-loop sandals have quietly risen the ranks in fashion, offering an alternative to those who either want to switch it up from flip-flops or downright dislike the popular, albeit controversial flat sandal trend. If either fit your current feelings for the shoes, keep scrolling. There are plenty of elegant toe-loop sandals of all styles below.