- Avarna Jain,
Chairperson RPSG Lifestyle Media
Flats to kitten heels and slingbacks —this Y-shaped strap has gone from practical to pret, and we’re taking notes.

Fashion is said to turn full circle, and in this case, a walk back into the present. That’s right. Thong sandals, once the darling of the 90s, is back to delight, on international runways and international events are strolling stylishly onto the style charts. Celebs are giving it their nod—Bella Hadid flaunted the trend with her Massimo Dutti black leather pair at Cannes this year, Zendaya paired her platform style on a lunch date out with Tom Holland.
And singer Dua Lipa who’s been grabbing the headlines of late for her wedding to Callum Turner —also shone the spotlight on the thong sandal when she sported Gucci heeled flip-flops version that screamed summer sass. Stringy, sassy and so summer, we’re for it!

This is a pair that goes from a day out around town to an early evening do. While kitten heels or stilettos are apt for the party, trade your sports shoes for platform thongs that are sturdier and look grungy while also being cool.
The best part of this '90s footwear is perfect bridal airport aesthetic: it matches almost anything from your sarong and slinky midi to your leggings, jeans and wide-leg trousers.
If you have a lot of walking to do at the destination wedding, get a pair that has ankle straps for better security.
The toe looped thong is also apt for beach weddings, where the toe strap lends a stylish vibe. Faux leather, animal prints and metallics are perfect if you’re the wedding guest who wants to make a fashion splash at the wedding celebration.
Post-sunset soiree? Pick up versions of the style in kitten and heeled looks that make for minimalist chic and glam up after-hour gatherings.

Are thong sandals and heels very popular right now? Why? Are they are especially popular at sangeets, haldis, hen dos and beach style destination gatherings. Affirms stylist Simran Khera: “Thong sandals and strappy heels are definitely having a big moment right now especially in wedding fashion. They are popular because they balance comfort with a dressed-up feel and let you navigate the busy time looking cool—exactly what you want during those long wedding functions.”
Khera shares a few tips on what works where:

- At sangeets and haldis, embellished thong flats with pearls beads or light stonework are trending since they’re easy to move in but still festive.
- For the beach, go plain with a slightly elevated heel a la Da Lipa or try mirrorwork flat thongs for a bohemian look.
- If it’s a haldi or mehendi function, slip on satin straps in shades of ochre and tangerine or try studded Y-straps that can never go wrong.
- Pearl detailed thong sandals are especially popular with the bride and her gang for daytime wedding events. They can also be monogrammed with everyone’s initials.
- Evening pool parties do really well with metallic thong sandals; it’s minimalist glam that works well with a flowy dress.
- As you move toward the main wedding or reception, go for a style that looks richer and structured with sleeker heels, encrusted with crystal and diamantes.
Overall, the thong sandal or thong flatform vibe is all about easy glamour that doesn’t do away with foot comfort.