People in L.A. Know Flip Flops Make This
Jeans will always be a wardrobe staple, but certain cuts and styles tend to ebb and flow in popularity as the years and seasons pass. While ultra-high-waisted styles once felt like the answer to every outfit dilemma, lately they’ve taken more of a backseat in my own wardrobe. Instead, the ripped jeans that have been tucked away at the back for the past few years suddenly feel ripe for a revival.
What’s sparked my change of heart? Kendall Jenner. After spotting her cool take on the forgotten denim trend, I’m more motivated than ever to bring my dusty pairs back into rotation. The secret to making this once-dated denim look current? It’s all in the shoes.
Where ripped jeans and white trainers were once the golden combination, the 2025 update sees classic sneakers swapped for sleek, '90s-inspired black flip-flops. The unexpected pairing gives the distressed denim a fresh, elevated feel, imbued with that laid-back, cool-girl energy L.A. style is known for.
Leaning into her signature model-off-duty aesthetic, Jenner styled her slouchy ripped jeans with layered T-shirts. Her minimalist flip-flops added polish, offering a sleek contrast to the cuffed hems and lived-in denim.
If you’re ready to revisit your ripped denim, consider this your cue. Below, I’ve rounded up the best ripped jeans and flip-flops to shop now for the coolest way to wear the forgotten jeans in 2025.
SHOP RIPPED JEANS AND FLIP-FLOPS:
H&M
Straight Regular Jeans
Style these with flip-flops, or dress them up with a sleek kitten heel.
Reformation
Jessie Thong Sandal
These also come in five other shades.
Zara
High-Waist Slim Fit Ripped Jeans
The high-waisted design offers a leg-elongating effect.
Zara
Leather Sandals With Rubber Sole
Honestly, I can't see these staying in stock for long.
RE/DONE
90s Loose High-Rise Straight-Leg Jeans
While I love these in the pale blue shade, they also come in five other washes.
The croc-print effect makes these feel so much more polished than typical rubber flip-flops.
Agolde
'90s Distressed Mid-Rise Straight-Leg Jeans
The casual rip detailing lends these a super laid-back energy.
Massimo Dutti
Flat Leather Sandals
These casual flip-flops are perfect for daily styling.
Gap
Blue Distressed High Waisted Barrel Jeans
These have a slight barrel leg finish for a modern and polished finish.
A.Emery
Flora Leather Flip Flops
Add a subtle wash of colour to your summer capsule wardrobe.
Levi's 501s are fashion person's favourites.
Arket
Leather Thong Sandals
Wear these with denim or style with a billowy cotton skirt.
