The History of Slip On Sandals: A Fashion Staple Through the Decades

The History of Slip On Sandals: A Fashion Staple Through the Decades

Ah, slip-on sandals. A fashion staple you can wear to the beach, a picnic, or just around town. But how did this beloved style come to be? Let’s take a look at the history of slip-on sandals and how they’ve evolved over the years.

Ancient Origins of the Slip On Sandal

The earliest known examples of slip on sandals date back to ancient Greece in the 5th century BC. Known as “kothorni," these open-toed slip on shoes featured thick soles and were worn by actors in Greek plays. They were also popular in Ancient Rome, where they were known as “soleae." Both men and women wore these styles for everyday wear, but the designs varied depending on social status. For example, wealthier citizens would opt for more ornate styles with precious metals and jewels adorning their kothorni or soleae.

Aisha Faux Leather Slip On Sandals

The Early Years (1950s)

The modern version of the slip-on sandal was first introduced in 1950s America as “jelly shoes," though it didn’t become a mainstream fashion trend until much later. The original jellies were made from PVC and usually came in bright colors like pink, blue, and green. They were extremely affordable and quickly became popular with teenage girls who wanted to show off their own unique sense of style.

Lou Slip On Sandals

The Middle Ages (1970s)

In the 1970s, things got more interesting. The jelly shoe was still popular but now it had gained some competition from other types of footwear such as platform shoes and mules. Even so, slip-on sandals remained popular among teenage girls who wanted a fashionable yet comfortable shoe for everyday wear. In addition to colorful PVC materials, leather versions also began to appear on the scene during this time period.

Celia Double Band Slip Sandals

Modern Times (2000s)

In the 2000s, slip-on sandals experienced a major revival thanks in part to celebrities like Paris Hilton and Britney Spears who often wore them out in public. This made them even more popular among young people who wanted to emulate their favorite stars' styles. Since then, slip-on sandals have become an even bigger trend with designers releasing new takes on this classic style each season. From metallic finishes to intricate beading and embellishments, there's no shortage of options when it comes to these versatile shoes!

Maisey Faux Leather Slip On Sandals

On-Trend Comfort

Nowadays, slip on sandals are just as likely to be found in trendy boutiques as they are in comfort stores. Thanks to advancements in materials technology, we've seen an explosion in design options—from stylish espadrilles featuring jute soles and vegan leather straps, to sporty slides made from lightweight foam or breathable mesh uppers. Whatever your style preference may be, there's sure to be a pair of slip on sandals out there that will fit your wardrobe needs perfectly.

Sofie Embellished Slip On Sandals

Slip on sandals are truly timeless footwear classics—they've been around since Ancient Greece (and perhaps even earlier!) and continue to remain popular through the decades thanks to their versatility and comfort factors. Whether you're looking for a retro revival piece or something more contemporary and trend-driven, there's sure to be a pair of slip on sandals out there for you! So why not give them a try? After all, history proves they'll never go out of style!

Share
Back to blog