The latest fashion frenzy for summer feet is flip-flops. Long considered beach wear, the flip-flop has evolved and is available with beads and other decorative items, jazzing them up and making them a fashion accessory.

Called flip-flops because of the sound they make when they slap against the foot as the wearer walks, they are popular all over the world and are known by several other names, such as “thongs” and “jandals”.

Flip-flops scored high on a survey of teens and college students of the most important items of their summer wardrobes. They are now even making it into business offices, carried in on the feet of employees. Generally inexpensive, even the ones sporting beads and sequins, they are an attractive and colorful addition to a relaxed summer look. However, as their popularity surges, so does their standing amongst other footwear and as a result names like Ralph Lauren and Eddie Bauer are getting in on the craze, producing their own “designer” flip-flops.

One caution: Flip-flops provide little to no support for the foot and so devout wearers may suffer pain and inflammation in the heels of the feet. But for the occasional casual yet snazzed up summer look, a great pair of flip-flops can be an outfit’s best accessory.