These Controversial Flats Are Officially Back for Summer 2025—7 Outfits That Prove They Can Look So Chic
My sister and I spend a lot of time trying to help each other find additions to our wardrobes—the right pair of summer shoes, a cute wedding guest dress, jeans that actually fit. Our most recent slew of texts involved finding summer sandals that feel different from the ones we've been wearing for the last few years. We wanted something fresh and a little more interesting. That promptly brought us to the conclusion that it was, indeed, a jelly sandal summer.
The last time I wore jelly shoes was roughly the year 1999, as a small child. They were clear and speckled with silver glitter. I loved them but forgot about their existence until this year, when I started noticing some of my favourite influencers and content creators building outfits with these statement shoes featured. Celebrities like Jennifer Lawrence have also embraced the jelly sandal trend, proving that everyone is feeling them this season.
Not only them, but brands too have been churning out cool, updated takes on jelly sandals. The Row released its cool gel-like caged flat, Ancient Greek Sandals dreamt up casual flip-flops with a jelly strap and toe post and Melissa—the brand that really started it all—has plenty of fresh updated takes on the fisherman-style jelly shoe.
I don't know about you, but I'm sold. For me, jelly sandals represent childhood and the carefree happiness that came with those outfits. I'm all for joyful dressing, especially when it's warm out. If you're also intrigued by bringing jelly sandals into your closet this summer, these outfits will show you exactly how to wear them.
Jelly Sandal Outfits I'm Copying This Summer:1. Jelly Mesh Flats + Skirt + Shacket
Style Notes: Mesh flats came and conquered and whilst I thought it would be some time before another flat trend took the world by storm, jelly caged sandals appeared. This style of flat is made of that iconic jelly material but has the same shape as flats, so they're a sort of sandal-ballet hybrid. The holes within the design make it ideal for staying cool throughout the summer, and they're generally just a unique, interesting shoe. I adore how Courtney paired these with a chic white skirt and shacket for a classic summer outfit with a spin.
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Style Notes: Platform jelly sandals are the style I've landed on this year, and I'm a huge fan of how Amaka has styled hers. Whilst I typically categorise this type of shoe as more casual, this outfit elevates them. Relaxed, wide-leg trousers, whether you prefer linen, crochet or cotton, are a staple of any summer capsule, so to make them feel ready for dinner on holiday or other occasions, add a sleek jelly platform and a cool strapless top. The key here is choosing a neutral color of shoe and a top in a material that's elegant (like silk or satin).
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Style Notes: I'm of the strong belief that jeans should be part of your capsule year-round—this is especially true when you're living in the UK. Sun and heat aren't always guaranteed, and I actually love wearing jeans with a nice top and a great pair of sandals. Marilyn has sparked another idea for me—pairing cool, barrel-leg or relaxed denim with jelly flip-flops. Add a graphic T-shirt and you have a timeless, casual summer uniform.
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Style Notes: There is no shortage of options if you like the caged sandal look. Whilst more minimal, transparent styles exist, so do those that make a statement. April's choice of red flats is the epitome of fun summer dressing. Paired with denim and a fun, maximal skirt and you have the perfect outfit to wear these shoes with.
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Style Notes: Your go-to summertime LBD is a perfect candidate for a jelly sandal outfit, as proven by Lizzy. Her choice of a transparent-strap shoe, layered with a suede jacket strikes the perfect balance between sleek minimalism and an effortless Parisian vibe. When you opt for neutral colours, it never hurts to choose a bolder bag.
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Style Notes: A pop of colour with a monochromatic outfit is styling perfection in my eyes, and one of my favourite ways to do so is through footwear. I'm bookmarking Marina's look for my summer holiday packing list. It perfectly shows how to mix that casual effortlessness of being on vacation into a very chic outfit. Opting for jelly flip-flops is also a great taster if you're not ready to commit to a full caged shoe or fisherman jelly look.
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Style Notes: Kellie's is another look I'm keeping in mind for traveling this season. Whether you're poolside at home or travelling to a sunny locale, nothing beats a vibrant patterned swimsuit with a relaxed white top. Her addition of Crocs is trend-forward. Although it's a polarising trend, the light blue is such a pretty hue and the shape of the shoe is undeniably iconic.
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