The great flip-flop revolution is upon us! It's a style shift as surprising as it is welcome. Gen Z, those flat-footed fashionistas born between 1997 and 2012, are ditching their trainers for the unthinkable: heels – and not just any heels, but kitten heel flip-flops with a height of around 1.5 inches.
Red carpet royalty like Hailey Bieber and Kaia Gerber have given the nod to this trendy trend, while Lily Collins took the Wimbledon men's final by storm in a sleek black Manolo Blahnik pair last week. And if you thought it was just the A-listers who were donning these stylish soles, think again – Love Island contestants are also getting in on the action.
Retail figures are going through the roof! John Lewis has seen a whopping 300% increase in sales of kitten heel toe-post shoes compared to last year, with some designs flying off the shelves. The Rejina Pyo x John Lewis thong sandals have sold out in no time, while Depop and Vinted searches for pre-owned kitten heels are up by 260% and 209%, respectively.
Fashion insiders say it's all about finding a balance between style and comfort. Who What Wear's Natalie Munro reckons these diminutive heels offer a 'casual energy' that's anything but intimidating, making them the perfect 'starter heel' for Gen Z's comfort-first wardrobe.
The versatility of kitten heel flip-flops is another key factor in their popularity. Suitable for both morning commutes and evening strolls, they're the ultimate solution for a generation that values ease of movement. Northampton Museum and Art Gallery's Rebecca Shawcross notes that for Gen Z, comfort and activity trump 'power shoe' connotations – marking a clear break from millennial fashion norms.