Flip- flops

Flip-flops?

Yes, that quintessential Tucson staple has joined the ranks of basics every man and woman should have in his or her wardrobe. No longer reserved for pool side, flip-flops this season mirror the myriad trends on fashion runways.

Like it or not, they've even visited the White House. (Don't forget the Northwestern women's lacrosse players 2005 photo with President George W. Bush.)

From eco-chic practicality to floral, brightly colored and sequined frivolity — there's a flip-flop for every occasion in local stores and online.

— Stories by Jennifer Sterba

Some tips for appropriate flip-flop finery

• Check the office dress code first. Yes, it's Tucson. But along with armpits and nose hair, some employers don't want to see for themselves how well you groom your body.

• While we're on that topic: Do keep your toe nails clean and neatly clipped. No one wants to see your grubby toes if you've been rooting in the backyard garden.

• If your flip-flops look rugged enough to go on a hike by themselves, don't wear them with clothes you wouldn't wear in the great outdoors. On the flip-side (get it?), don't wear dainty flip-flops with your favorite lumberjack (read: flannel) outfit.

• Pair brightly colored flip-flops with color-coordinated wood or enameled jewelry for a put-together outfit.

• Let sparkly flip-flops take center stage. Don't pile on gold or silver necklaces or every diamond you own. Let your dressy flip-flops be your jewelry.

By the numbers

1 Havaianas flip-flops have developed a devoted following. Aside from their super-cute and colorful designs, the rubber sandals are quite comfy. You can even throw them in the dishwasher to clean. $13-$22 a pair at Product by Maria Martin, 2905 E. Skyline Drive, in the upper level of La Encantada.

2 Gianni Bini offers a luxe flip-flop for summer nights out on the town. This shoe maximizes the metallics and embellishments trend with gold straps and rhinestone accents. Wear with that little black dress or a brightly colored maxi-dress. $49. Available at Dillard's at Tucson Mall.

3 London Underground flip-flops owe their squishy comfort to the fact that they're crafted of the same material as yoga mats. The wide straps are decorated with a cool, raised pyramid design. $35 at Stems - A Shoe Boutique, 4340 N. Campbell Ave., in St. Philip's Plaza.

4 The idea behind the Feng-Flop is that you wear what you wish for. Hence, words like "wisdom," "clarity," "longevity" imprinted on the soles — when they wear off, you'll have achieved your spiritual goal. $15, Sigi's Boutique, 4340 N. Campbell Ave., in St. Philip's Plaza.

5 Uggs, yes, that same company known for the cozy moon boots, has dipped into the flip-flop market. These have a hard-rubber bottom and cushy shearling top that wicks moisture away from those tootsies. $29.99 at Worldly Soles, 3025 N. Campbell Ave., south of East Fort Lowell Road.

6 Xhilaration at Target offers affordable bling with metal accents available in gold and silver for $12.99. Dress up jeans and a saucy blouse for that ladies' lunch or wear with this season's cocktail shorts and a tunic for happy hour. Several locations.

7 Montego Bay Club at Payless ShoeSource offers bright colors this season. Synthetic materials have come a long way by the look of these faux-leather violets that make up the straps. $17.99 at Tucson and Park Place malls and individual store locations throughout Tucson.

8 Merrell Performance Footwear at Touché Shoes offers cute functionality with these turquoise flip-flops that offer the comfort of Birkenstocks with an urban vibe. Pair with your weekend wear. $70 at Touché Shoes, 4811 E. Grant Road, in Crossroads Festival near North Swan Road.