6 ways to style flip-flops and maxi dresses to combat the heat, with items already in your wardrobe

This weekend is going to be a scorcher, with temperatures hitting up to 30 degrees across the UK. The heatwave is going to continue well into next week, and if you feel like you’re running out of ideas on what to wear to keep cool (as I definitely am), then look no further. We’ve already established that flip-flops are the shoe of the summer, thanks to luxe versions from The Row and Chloé. No longer reserved for the pool, the humble foam flip-flop has become a high fashion item — which is great news, considering almost everyone has a pair at home.

Midi and maxi dresses are the perfect way to combat the heat — long, floaty and lightweight, they’re an outfit all-in-one. Pair with a foot-exposing flip-flop and you’ll be ready to tackle the stickiest of BBQs or non-air-conditioned office buildings. But how to keep the look interesting? The best outfits tend to come from layers or multiple elements, which is exactly what needs to be stripped away in this weather. Below, I’ve compiled some of the most stylish heatwave outfit ideas combining maxi dresses and flip-flops. Best of all, it’s likely you’ll already have these accessories in your wardrobe.

Polka dot dress and bright handbag

Polka dots are having a major moment. The print works perfectly on a maxi dress style, and there are plenty of options currently available on the high street. Add a splash of colour with a brightly coloured, neon handbag — we love this wearer's yellow Coperni Swipe. Finish off with a pair of chunky black flip-flops.

T-shirt dress and statement earrings

You just can't go wrong with a T-shirt dress. Breezy, stylish and no thought process required. Smarten up the look with leather flip-flops and statement, eye-catching earrings — drop, hoop, clip-on, your ears are your oyster.

Vest dress and bead necklaces

Say yes to the vest maxi dress. Easy to throw on and perfect for hot, sunny days, it's the yin to the flip-flops' yang. Layer up your jewellery game to keep things exciting — we love how this wearer has mixed chunky beads with chains. Her cuff bracelets and stacked earrings also add major style points.

Crochet dress and micro sunglasses

Don't save your crochet maxi for holiday! It can be worn in the city as well as on the beach. A pair of chunky platform flip-flops can help give you some extra height. Add some micro shades and a mini bag, and your ready for a night out on the town.

Slip dress and men’s shirt

Underwear as outerwear will always be relevant — you just can't beat a good nightie. A silk slip maxi dress just makes sense, and works oh so well with a pair of casual flip-flops. An oversized button-down shirt knotted around the waist not only looks great, but can come in handy to protect your shoulders from the sun. We're also obsessed with this wearer's studded handbag — from Gimaguas to Mango, there are so many good versions available to shop RN.

Strapless dress and clutch bag

A strapless maxi dress and clutch bag can feel very evening-wear and formal, but that's where the flip-flops come in! This shoe gives the look a major cool girl, casual twist. Perfect for the pub garden, if we do say so ourselves.

Rebecca Jane Hill

Senior Fashion Editor

Rebecca Jane Hill is the Senior Fashion Editor at Cosmopolitan UK. She has previously contributed to publications including Vogue, Elle, Marie Claire, Harper’s Bazaar, Refinery29, The Face, Glamour and Stylist. She started her own magazine, Sister, in 2012 whilst at university. Focused around feminism, fashion and culture, it went on to produce 12 globally stocked print issues, as well as countless events and partnerships. She closed the magazine in 2023.

Rebecca has been an associate lecturer at London College of Fashion since 2018, where she teaches on the Fashion Journalism course. She is a passionate second-hand shopper and is constantly on the lookout for new design talent.