The Thong Heel Trend Chic People Are Wearing in Spring 2026

We know that clothing trends tend to move at the speed of light, but I’ve always found that shoes typically take a more leisurely path. Every so often, though, styles we’d once written off as “dated” make a sudden resurgence, and then they’re everywhere. As we quietly head into spring (apparently!), everywhere I look, there’s one ‘90s shoe trend breaking through the noise. Promising to add a sophisticated edge to our new-season capsule? The thong heel.

The humble flip-flop‘s dressed-up sister, thong heels have emerged victorious in spring 2026. With a minimalist Y-shaped strap, fashion’s chicest dresses are opting for the barely there silhouette to add a casually pared-back finish to their looks. For spring/summer 2026, the runways were filled with toe-baring designs in both wedge and kitten-heel form.

From brown croc kitten heels at Christopher Esber to eclectic furry iterations at Gucci, designers dived headfirst into the trend. And naturally, the street-style set is never far behind. From Hailey Bieber’s minimalist style (finished with polka-dot capri leggings and a staple black top) to Kendall Jenner’s elevated leather platforms, I’m seeing thong sandals paired with everything this season: think billowing dresses, tiered skirts and, of course, every iteration of jeans around.

But don’t just take my word for it; the data backs it up. Searches for “thong heels” are up 40% this month on Google, and I predict it’s a shoe trend that will be everywhere by the time summer hits. Scroll down to shop my pick of the best pairs.