ICYMI, Thong sandals are dominating summer 2025. While trendsetters like Hailey Bieber, Gigi Hadid, and Kylie Jenner are sporting classic iterations of the silhouette—think: throwback flip-flops and kitten heels—I can’t help but notice a fresher take that’s reigning supreme. Enter: rope sandals, a.k.a. the playful flip-flop-alternatives that marry a nautical, gorpcore look and functional feel. I’m spotting the straight-off-the-runway shoes on every New York City fashion person this season—so naturally, I snagged a pair while they’re just $13 with an onsite coupon.
Since spying Miu Miu’s utilitarian rope sandals, which retail for $925, I’ve been on the hunt for a lookalike style. On a whim, I snagged the under-$15 Rihero Rope Thong Sandals on Amazon, and to my pleasant surprise, they’re nearly identical to the luxury pair. In fact, the rich-looking shoes are so chic, I influenced two fellow fashion editors to order them on the spot after just one wear. If you act quickly, you can get your hands on (and feet into) the It Girl summer shoes in four colors while they’re still on sale.
Rihero Rope Thong Sandals
Amazon
The $13 sandals boast the best qualities of the elusive styles gracing the toes of the coolest people you know. Of course, they feature on-trend cord straps that bring a sense of summer-camp whimsy to every outfit. Plus, they have an elevated T-strap thong silhouette that’s right on par with this summer’s most popular pairs. Down to the details, the shoes even have the same velcro back closures as the ones I’m seeing all over New York City.
Amazon
Beyond their elevated look, the Rihero rope sandals offer ample comfort for all-day wear thanks to their lightweight feel, flat durable outsoles, and padded insoles. Plus, their ankle straps are adjustable to your preference. I wear the $13 shoes for walking city blocks, spending long days at the office, and of course, ultra-chic beach days. As one shopper confirmed, the sandals are “lightweight and comfortable,” while someone else added that they have a “nice cushion,” crowning them the “perfect neutral sandals.” I’d have to agree.
Run to Amazon to snag my cool-girl rope sandals while they’re just $13.
Amazon
