Within the last two years, I have seen more flip-flops outside of the beach than I ever did in the 14 years prior. The recent resurgence of flip-flops as a fashion trend is nothing new, though many believe it to be. In fact, the style has been around for centuries, changing and evolving just as any piece of fashion does. It all began with the ancient Egyptians, who originally made the shoes from papyrus and built for the hot, dry climate. Similar styles are found globally from the same period, varying only in their material. Next, it transferred to Geisha in Japan, who were traditional Japanese performers and entertainers, and wore the flip-flop style, then called Geta to keep their expensive Kimono hems out of the dirt and snow, peaking in its popularity during the 19th and 20th centuries.
The next evolution for flip-flops was, surprisingly, World War II, when American soldiers came back from the Pacific theater with a new knowledge of open-toed shoes that they would bring back to American manufacturers and begin the trend of flip-flops in the West. This era of the shoe was when it got its standout name “flip-flop,” for the sound its sole made as it smacked against the road.
Next came the pop culture breakout for flip-flops, which started in the late nineties, when the Brazilian brand Havaianas added national flags to celebrate the World Cup. This increased exposure would lead to American designers discovering the value of a flip-flop—runway shows opted for a sleek, modern version of the shoe as an alternative to going barefoot. This new high-fashion use of flip-flops would transform the shoe forever, from its utilitarian and household origin to a sleek, slip-on that goes with anything.
Lastly, the most recent era of the flip-flop, at least at Westmont, is the incredibly popular Rainbows. Made of leather and with the most adorable rainbow tag on the side, they are extremely comfortable and super stylish, and I would go so far as to say that 75% of our school is wearing a pair on any given day, rain or shine.
So, the takeaway from all of this is: one, that I love flip-flops, and two, that people across the globe are united by our fashion and our sense of style, whether it is influenced by climate or by liking a certain look. From Egypt to Japan to Campbell, California, flip-flops will always have your back (and feet!).