Flip-flops in the city and beyond - etiquette and safety

Japanese women in the city - controversy or the norm?

Flip-flops are a symbol of summer, beach and relaxation. However, their ubiquity in cities during hot weather is controversial. Are flip-flops in the city center a sign of freedom and comfort, or rather a lack of respect for public space?

Arguments FOR:

• In hot weather (above 30°C) it is difficult to require closed shoes
• Flip-flops are comfortable and allow your feet to breathe
• Contemporary urban fashion has become more relaxed and democratic
• In Mediterranean countries this is standard, no one is outraged

Arguments AGAINST:

• Exposed feet in public spaces may be perceived as unsightly
• In some cultures it is a sign of disrespect
• Unkept feet in flip-flops can be unpleasant for the environment
• It's simply inappropriate in a fancy restaurant or theater

How to find the golden mean? Remember about the context and well-groomed feet!

Flip-flops at work - when is it acceptable?

Are flip-flops in the office a violation of boundaries or a sign of a modern approach to dress code? It all depends on the organizational culture of your company.

Where flip-flops are absolutely unacceptable:

• Corporations with a formal dress code (banks, law firms, consulting companies)
• Industries requiring uniforms (health care, catering)
• Conservative circles (public administration, judiciary)
• During meetings with clients, especially if you represent a company
• At official conferences and business events

Where they may be acceptable:

• Startups and tech companies with a relaxed culture
• Creative agencies, graphic studios
• Remote work/home office during videoconferencing (no one can see your feet!)
• Friday casual Friday in some companies
• Holiday dress code (July-August in offices without air conditioning)

If you're not sure, ask your manager or look at how others dress. Elegant ones will always be a safer choice sandals with a built-up heel or leather slippers in subdued colors.

Driving in flip-flops - it's really dangerous!

This is one of the most important safety topics! Driving a car in flip-flops is legally allowed in Poland, but definitely not recommended and can have serious consequences.

Why flip-flops are dangerous behind the wheel:

• Loose attachment - the shoe may slip off the foot at a crucial moment
• The strap between the toes makes it difficult to quickly move your foot between the pedals
• Lack of a stable sole - poor feeling of the pedals
• Risk of getting stuck under the pedal - potentially fatal
• Extended reaction time in a threat situation

Legal consequences:

Although there is no direct prohibition, the police may consider it as improper footwear that prevents proper operation of the vehicle. In the event of an accident:

• The insurer may reduce the compensation or refuse to pay
• You may be found responsible for the accident
• Fine up to PLN 500 and 6 penalty points

What to do?
Always have a spare pair of closed shoes (sneakers, loafers) in your car. If you're going to the beach in flip-flops, check yourself before turning on the engine. These few seconds can save your life and the life of others.

Savoir-vivre: where NOT to wear flip-flops

Not all occasions are suitable for flip-flops. Here are the situations in which it is better to choose different footwear:

❌ Wedding and other celebrations
Even if it's a beach or garden wedding. Choose elegant high-heeled sandals or leather ballerinas.

❌ Higher class restaurants
In an elegant restaurant with tablecloths and professional service, flip-flops will look inappropriate. Even if they are expensive designer models.

❌ Theatre, opera, philharmonic hall
These are places where a certain dress code still applies. Flip-flops won't work there.

❌ Official visits
Office, bank (credit matters), notary, serious meetings - require more formal footwear.

❌ First date
Unless it's a beach date! Otherwise, go for something more thoughtful.

✓ Where flip-flops are OK:
Beach, swimming pool, holiday walks, summer outdoor festivals, barbecue in the garden, casual meetings with friends, shopping in a shopping mall, park, your own home and garden.

Well-groomed feet - a matter of hygiene and respect

Even the most expensive flip-flops will not look good if your feet are neglected. Exposed toes are also a responsibility!

Basics of well-groomed feet:

• Nail clippings - short, even, without yellow discoloration
• Moisturized heels - no cracks or calluses
• Smooth skin - regular peeling removes dead skin
• No calluses or corns - if you have a problem, visit a podiatrist
• Well-groomed nails - nail polish (if you wear it) without roots and chips

Pedicure - mandatory or optional?
If you wear flip-flops in public, a basic pedicure is not a luxury but a gesture of respect towards your surroundings. It doesn't have to be colorful - French manicure or transparent nail polish look neat and natural.

Odors and hygiene
Hot weather + flip-flops = intense foot sweating. Every day:

• Wash your feet thoroughly with soap
• Use antiperspirant for your feet
• Change your flip-flops (don't wear the same ones every day)
• If there is a problem, use antibacterial powder

Remember: on the bus, in a restaurant or in a store, your feet are very close to other people!

Japanese women in different cultures - international etiquette

Different cultures have different attitudes towards exposed feet in public spaces. It's worth reading this before your trip!

Where flip-flops are the norm:

• Brazil, Thailand, Vietnam - flip-flops are worn everywhere, even in restaurants
• Australia, New Zealand - part of beach culture, accepted in most places
• Mediterranean countries (Greece, Italy, Spain) - common in coastal cities in summer
• California, Florida - part of the relaxed surfing lifestyle

Where they may be perceived negatively:

• Japan - although the name suggests otherwise! In cities people tend to wear geta (traditional footwear)
• Arab countries - exposed feet may be inappropriate, especially in religious places
• Northern Europe - in Scandinavian countries, flip-flops in the city may be surprising
• Great Britain - a more conservative approach to dress code in public space

Universal rule:
In temples, mosques, monasteries - always check local rules. You are often required to remove your shoes or cover your feet.

Alternatives to flip-flops - comfort and versatility

If you love the comfort of flip-flops but want something more versatile, consider these alternatives:

1. Sandals with a heel strap
They provide safety and stability, while still being airy. Perfect for the car and longer walks. See our offer women's sandals.

2. Espadrilles
Comfortable, stylish, more urban than flip-flops. Perfect for summer casual styling. Check wedge espadrilles.

3. Slip-on (slip-on sneakers)
Comfortable like flip-flops, but closed. They can be worn everywhere. Perfect for the city.

4. Moccasins/loafers
Elegant, comfortable, can be worn without socks. A good compromise between formal and casual.

5. Flip-flops with a profiled sole
More coverage than flip-flops, better arch support, but still breathable. Look flip-flops on a cork platform.

For men:
Light sneakers, leather sports sandals, perforated loafers - all this will give you comfort without compromising on appearance.

Find your perfect balance between comfort and appearance!