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Top Flip Flops - Women's Casual Flip-Flops and Thong Sandals

By Desiree Stimpert, About.com

There's much debate over what defines a "flip flop" sandal. To me, a flip flop has always been a flat, casual sandal (thong, slide, etc.) that is free at the back, so that when one walks, they get a sort of "flip-flop" sound.

Whether you call them flip flops, thongs or beach shoes; these top picks in women's flip-flops and casual thongs range from sporty to classy - and will keep you comfortable and stylish all spring and summer.

Poll: How Often do You Wear Flip-Flops?

1. Reef "Seaside" Popular Flip-Flop Two Packs

Incredibly popular and reasonably-priced, these Reef sandals come in a wide variety of fun prints and colors. But the best part is, they're sold in two-packs, and each set has two styles, so you get twice the bang for your buck.

2. Born "Carmel" - Strappy Thong Sandals

While the cool factor of these strappy thong sandals is apparent, they're also very cosmopolitan and chic. And since the thin straps are delicate enough to a little bit dressier than rubber flip-flops can, the only question here is "what color?"

3. Donald J. Pliner Flip Flops - Heeled, Embellished "Cosette"

Much fancier than most of the flip-flops you'll see, these thong sandals from Donald J. Pliner still offer loads of summery casual attitude, but they do it with an impeccable sense of style. With 1.25" heels and artsy hardware embellishments, if you love these flip-flops like I do, you'll want to pair these artsy sandals with gypsy skirts, mini skirts, shorts, jeans, and cropped pants. I love them in red.

4. Skechers Cali "Heatwaves-Why Keykey" - Frayed Flip Flops

Casual, but still dynamic, these canvas flip-flops have cool frayed edges, and thick sporty soles. With floral embroidery on the straps, these sandals are really unique, and come in several colors -- the white version is my particular favorite.

5. Colorful Flip Flops - Kenneth Cole Reaction "Glam Chops"

Kenneth Cole's "Glam Chops" flip-flops have a unique, casual look, and come in great colors like kiwi, raspberry, orange, black and white. With perforated uppers and a cute side buckle, these thong sandals will add fun to your wardrobe and take you anywhere that's casual.

6. Yellow Box "Coolness" - Super-Cute Embellished Flip Flops

Cool, yes, but a more appropriate name for these flip flops might have been "cuteness," as they're 100% girly fun. With frayed canvas straps in red, natural, black, or brown, and tiny linked rhinestone flowers, these sandals would be perfect with casual shorts or minis.

7. Dr. Scholl's "Impulse" - Cute Heeled Flip Flops

These heeled thongs are the ultimate in cute! With 2.75" wedge heels, and trendy patent uppers, these shoes come in an array of colors, including fuchsia, lime, red, black and white. The wide band upper will add a fun, flirty look to shorts and shorter skirts.

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