Put Your Best Foot Forward for the Rest of Summer With…

Put Your Best Foot Forward for the Rest of Summer With These Fashion-Forward Flip Flops

Not the tacky, flimsy kind. (Credit: Courtesy of Reformation)

Flip flops often get a bad rap. Either they're cheap, flimsy and meant just to shuffle around in near the pool, the beach or in dormitory bathrooms or they're overpriced designer versions not worth shelling out for. But there is a sartorial middle ground. It comes courtesy of truly fashion-forward flip flops that you'll want to slip on every single summer.

Also known as thong sandals, perhaps in an effort to distinguish them from the not-deserved notoriety of flip flops, these pairs are big on personality. Naturally, we've included some fashion house selections. To make this list, however, they must offer something special, like Christian Louboutin's classic red sole or Valentino's studs or instantly recognizable logos. Balenciaga's souvenir thong sandals make the list because they're too cool to pass up.

Of course, we're including some lower-price alternatives. Mango, Zara and Reformation boast minimalist takes that could easily be accepted as part of a quiet luxury outfit. Into the jelly craze? See Ancient Greek Sandals' clear red style. If you're looking for flip flops with a little something extra, TKEES' ankle-wrap pair belongs in your sandal lineup. Since all of these are a tad more reasonable, you can pick up more than one set.

Keep reading to see our picks for the most fashion-forward flip flops of the season. Fortunately, there's sill plenty of summer to come so you'll still put plenty of mileage on them before fall rolls around.