Flip flops have been favorites for different civilizations for years and years, and they still are the most popularized sandals used by every person in the world. They are practical and comfortable, this type of shoe has approximately six thousand years of existence, it can still be seen today in different murals, images and even tombstones from ancient Egyptian civilization.



The most ancient example of a flip-flop exists in the Britain Museum, made of papyrus and was created around 1500 AC. In the beginning, it is believed that they were made of papyrus and palm fibers. Some had straps that covered the ankle and the leg, while others had the classic design we see today.

In certain African regions they were created with leather, in India they used wood and in Asia rice plans were the material of choice. Some historians confirm that in Mexico the Cassava plant was used for this creation.

They were nicknamed flip flops because of the sound they appear to make slapping on the wearer's feet. History reveals that the arrival of flip flops to America was a result of World War II, when soldiers brought them from Japan as souvenirs for their loved ones and themselves. The first ones seen, had a fine sole and could easily break. In the 50's, North American culture developed new designs with different materials like rubber, making them especially famous around the surfer community in California. They were first seen in Hawaii, with the arrival of surfers and marine soldiers who preferred this type of shoe on their free time. They were easy to make, simple and best of all, economic, the demand for this knew fad was so big that the Japanese were suddenly the principal distributors for flip-flops.

Today, they are similar to 'the little black dress', everyone owns a pair, and some have them in every color. This sandal can be found in bamboo, leather, metallic, rubber, and even cork. They are also known as thongs, for their peculiar 'Y' shape, their designs vary from classic colors to colorful prints and solids. Some have are embellished with jewelry, beading, buckles, fringes and medallions. If at the beginning they only had a flat sole, today you can find platform and other type of support on this kind of shoe sole, but maybe one of its best aspects is that in warm climates, flips flops are never out of and can be worn throughout the whole year. Some brides are ordering their white pair to walk comfortably down the aisle on their big day.

You don't have to wait for summer to enjoy the comfort of your new flip flops, be adventurous and wear them for a day out shopping with girlfriends, or even for a date at the movies because they have been adapted for your needs, there are flip flop heels and wedges for a dressy occasion and flat flip flops for a more casual day.