It’s a dogs out summer. As the weather warms and as we all start to defrost, the open-toed shoes start to come out. The people have spoken and come to a decision that once again, thong heels are going to be the trendiest shoe this season.
ICYMI (or live under a rock), thongs were the biggest footwear trend of the 2025/2026 summer. They flooded our feeds — and shopping carts. To be totally honest, I thought it would be a fleeting fashion blip. Alas, they’ve established themselves as a staple in many wardrobes and won’t be vanishing off Pinterest boards any time soon.
Two of the biggest indicators that thong heels would be back for another season was at this year’s Copenhagen Fashion Week (CPHFW). While I personally wasn’t in attendance, I lived vicariously through the algorithm, street style guides, and a small group of Australian content creators who flew across the globe to be there — and thongs were everywhere.
To double down on the inescapable presence of thongs at CPHFW, Havianas launched their brand new Kitten Heel at a by the sea during Denmark’s Fashion Week.
(Unfortunately they’re not available for consumer purchase as of yet, but we’re hoping they’re released for retail soon!)
THEN, if CPHFW’s endorsement wasn’t enough, the thong heel style popped up on The Lyst Index not once, but twice this quarter. Massimo Dutti’s thong kitten wedge took spot number six, and Gucci’s Victoria Thong Heels ranked number four. And if you don’t know what The Lyst Index is, it’s a quarterly report on the most sought-after fashion items each quarter. So when something makes the list, you know it’s a trend.
Last year, thong heels were kept quite simple. They were a way to elevate your casual outfits without doing too much. Simple leather straps with a kitten stiletto or a sleek wedge were usually the way to go. In 2026, we’re getting more playful with it and experimenting with colours and shapes. Footwear is no longer an afterthought, it’s an essential component to your outfit.
So let’s have some fun with it, shall we?
Below, we’ve rounded up the best thong heels available to shop this season. From classic silhouettes to funky footwear, these are the pick of the litter.
11 Of The Best Pairs Of Thong Heels To Shop In Time For Summer
Mollini Febbe Pale Blue Suede Wedges
As a proud owner of these thong wedge heels, I can personally vouch for their comfiness. The baby blue suede is super soft, so it doesn’t cause uncomfortable rubbing in-between your toes. The sculptural wedge adds a nice touch, too.
Shop Mollini, $229.95Image: Mollini.
Tony Bianco Kassy Turquoise Nappa Patent
If you want vibrant shoes this summer, head to Tony Bianco. This Aussie brand is nailing the bubblegum aesthetic, and the Kassy Turquoise Nappa Heel is already a fan favourite. These are also a great option if you want a thong / sandal hybrid — they feel a little more playful.
Shop Tony Bianco, $189.95Image: @emilyqualch
Novo Yankie Milk Chocolate Mules
Aren’t the stones on the straps of these Novo thong heels just divine?! Separated by gold beads, these are a fun slightly boho option that are surprisingly versatile despite their bold statement. They’d look great with jeans, mini skirts or maxi dresses alike.
Shop Novo, $94.95Image: Novo.
Lana Wilkinson Martine Wedge
Love the look of thong heels but always fear they’re going to slip off your feet? The Martine Wedge from Lana Wilkinson solves that. With a supportive slingback and sculptural silhouette, these are a real showstopper.
Shop Lana Wilkinson, $249.95Image: Lana Wilkinson.
Dazie Cleo Thong Kitten Heels
We’re obsessed with the gold statement elevating these simple Thong Kitten Heels from Dazie. If you’re a silver girl, you’ll love the black pair!
Shop Dazie, $69.99Image: The Iconic.
Atmos&Here Tilly Square Toe Thong Leather Kitten Heels
A thick band on a thong heel is super cute, especially when it’s pleated like the Tilly Square Toe Thong Leather Kitten Heels from Atmos&Here. And because the straps aren’t super thin, there’s a far less chance of rubbing and discomfort!
Shop Atmos&Here, $78 (usually $119.99)Image: The Iconic.
Crocs Getaway Platform Flip
Some may not count these platform Crocs as a thong heel, but they add height to whoever is wearing them, so that counts for something, right? Anywho, these are a crowd favourite amongst holiday goers as they’re a versatile shoe that can be dressed up or down, taking you from daytime exploring to nighttime bars.
Shop Crocs, $79.99Image: Crocs.
Therapy Pookie Thong Heels
Aren’t these just so fun?! The Pookie Thong Heels look fresh out of an early 2000s movie and I’m obsessed!
Shop Therapy, $89.95Image: Therapy.
Twoobs BFF+
The Twoobs BFF+ are another platform thong beloved for its supreme comfort. The vibrant red colour is a personal favourite, but they also do brown, black, burgundy and cobalt blue, to name a few other shades.
Shop Twoobs, $149Image: Twoobs.
Betts Sable Thong Wedge Sandals
If you’re happy to wait a couple of weeks for your pre-pre-order to be shipped out, Betts’ Sable Thong Wedge Sandals are an absolute showstopper. The tortoiseshell print is super unique, especially for footwear, but is still versatile enough that’ll it complement all your outfits.
Shop Betts, $90.99 (usually $129.99)Image: Betts.
Billini Cassiopeia
Effortlessly stylish, the Billini Cassiopeia is made from a patent faux leather, giving them a gorgeous shine. They’re also available in black, white and chocolate, so if you’d rather stick to neutrals, you can.
Shop Billini, $99.95Image: Billini.
Book in your pedicure and enjoy a dogs’ out summer!
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