Seasonal wardrobe transitions really are a thing to behold in the UK.
Only here will you see people walking around in big coats, scarves and wooly hats on a Wednesday, and then vests, cargo shorts and flip-flops on the Thursday.
With the Great British weather being renowned for turning dramatically from one day to the next, we can be forgiven for being a little over-enthusiastic when the sun eventually shines.
We’ve learned not to take nice weather for granted and with so much precious Vitamin D to absorb in such a short period of time, switching our shoes for sandals or flip-flops makes perfect sense. It’d be nice to wear flip-flops for all occasions (and some people do!), but there are a few unwritten rules of etiquette to observe.
Here’s our advice…
1) So When is it REALLY Acceptable to Start Wearing Flip-Flops?
Nobody’s going to begrudge you getting some much-needed air to your feet after yet another long, gruelling winter.
However, there’s always “that guy” who you see strutting around in their new Havaianas in mid-February.
Every year!
They undoubtedly look a little off-the-wall braving the open-toe look when snow boots would be more appropriate.
Of course, there’s no ‘Flip-Flop Police’ to tell you when you can officially switch to a summer look. Nevertheless, whenever there’s an element of doubt, we like to turn to Google.
Trends graphs show that there’s a clear point in the year when the number of people searching for flip-flops starts to significantly pick up in the UK.
As of April 8th, demand starts to climb considerably, eventually peaking on June 18th.
But if you want to go against the grain and don your flip-flops whenever you see fit, don’t let us stop you!
2) Is it Ever Okay to Wear Flip-Flops to Work?
It’s not the same in every industry or line of work, but there’s a general feeling that workplace dress codes are becoming more relaxed.
In 2017 there were calls to allow workers to tone down their formal attire while temperatures were high, with the TUC being particularly vocal in urging employers to use their common sense to ensure staff remained comfortable.
Workplace footwear is a topic that divides opinion, though.
Research recently undertaken by Wynsors found that 40% of people feel it’s NEVER acceptable to wear trainers to work – let alone flip-flops!
Even so, many businesses have adopted a refreshingly liberal approach to workwear, and lots of people will now routinely wear flip-flops to work on hot days.
You’ll find a range of cheap men’s and women’s flip-flops right here at Wynsors.
3) Is it Illegal to Drive in Flip-Flops?
You may find it hard to believe, but it is NOT illegal to drive a vehicle either barefoot or while wearing flip-flops in the UK.
However, that’s not to say that it is in any way recommended!
It IS illegal to get behind the wheel if you’re wearing something that prevents you from safely controlling the vehicle. This is where the laws are open to interpretation to some degree.
This guide by the RAC explains the situation well.
4) Wearing Flip-Flops On A Night Out – Yea or Nay?
Some research that we conducted last year showed that one in five people have been turned away from a nightspot because of something they were wearing.
Although your flip-flops will serve you well in the beer garden at your local pub in the afternoon, it’s safe to assume that not all establishments will bend their dress codes to accommodate you once the sun goes down.
This is by no means a hard-and-fast rule, and many bars, restaurants and clubs will welcome you and your bare-toed friends with open arms. If you’ve got an itinerary planned, it’s best to check the websites of your chosen haunts beforehand to see if they have any kind of rules on footwear.
5) Look After Your Feet!
It’s always important to look after your feet regardless of the type of shoes you’re planning to wear, but it goes without saying that your feet are there for all to see when you wear flip-flops.
One advantage of going open-toe is that you’re more likely to spot any issues with your feet than you are through the winter months when they’re tucked away for the vast majority of the day.
Take a look through our foot care guide and make sure your feet are healthy and presentable this summer.
