I just got back from Italy—as in, last night at 9 p.m., and I’m still reeling off the magic that was my European wedding getaway. However, reality has set in again, and I’m slowly getting back into the swing of things here. Work! NYC heat! NYC fashion! But the latter is definitely a bit (read: a lot) different from what I saw in Italy, and Rita Ora’s bold, controversial, out-there, [insert adjective] look is the best example of how different sartorial tastes here are.
Ora is not afraid to stand out with her fashion, nor show off everything in transparent naked dresses that certainly aren’t for the faint of heart. But alas, that’s what makes her a singular style icon, with a taste that’s so uniquely her, it’s almost hard to recreate her looks—aside from those shoes she just wore that I might have to copy after spending too many days in heels (for my wedding!)
The singer was snapped walking around the Big Apple, and she was impossible to miss in her red-hot outfit that included coordinating pants and a matching top, both designed in bright crimson hue with netted detailing throughout that have the pieces some extra dimension, not to mention ventilation, which you definitely need in this NYC heat. She rounded out her look with red sunglasses, a chunky chain necklace, and those divisive summer sandals that have snapped me out of my post-wedding blues.
Nordstrom Avery Sandals
Bernardo Footwear Goldy Sandals
The singer skipped sneakers and she skipped ballet flats, two classic summer shoe styles, in favor of thong flip-flops. But, unlike typical summertime flip-flops we see, like those Havaianas Jennifer Lopez plays favorites with, Ora went with a PVC pair that featured a thicker thong front that instantly elevated the style. The thicker strap looks a bit more refined, not to mention probably wears a bit more comfortably, as you don’t have two thin straps poking through your big toe. One word of advice: Just watch out for the thong sun tan!
The sandals pair well with everything, too. So whether your summer wardrobe consists of dresses, skirts, jeans, or shorts, you can wear the slip-on with ease. Just be aware that people certainly have opinions of the silhouette, but a controversial shoe is the least controversial fashion out there. So, dare to wear a bold shoe is my summer 2024 motto.
Shop more thong sandals below inspired by Ora’s pair.
Get the Look:
J.Crew New Capri Wide Thong Sandals
Shop now: $85 (Originally $138); jcrew.com
Volatile Trek Water-Resistant Flip-Flop
Shop now: $70; nordstrom.com
Reformation Gisele Thong Sandals
Shop now: $298; thereformation.com
FitFlop Lulu Platform Wedge Flip-Flop
Shop now: $90; nordstrom.com
Vionic Restore II Flip-Flop
Shop now: $85; nordstrom.com