This ‘90s-Coded Pedicure Pairs Perfectly With Flip Flop and Jeans

Unfortunately, chilly weather often comes along sooner than we think it will. This doesn’t mean there won’t be pockets of warmth before things get really brutal, but it does mean we need to assess our fall wardrobe situation sooner rather than later.

The good news? Transitional outfit inspiration is better than ever before. Though it’s too early to pick a winner of in-between-time style this year, last year’s star was definitely the jeans and flip flops trend. Luckily for those who invested in a pair of flops, it seems to be sticking around this year, too.

Because you need it now, I’m here clue you in on the perfect pedicure to go with the look, or whatever your almost-fall go-to may be. The dogs are staying out longer this year, and they need their pre-winter coat.

The Trend

The ideal polish in question is a deep, dark, and moody shade that gives both “cozy” and “it’s warm enough to expose my toes to the elements.” While we’re partial to navy polish, a berry or black also does the trick.

When paired with a summery sandal and long pant, the shade has the energy of that special kind of beach day where it’s too cold to swim but the perfect temperature to enjoy the salty air while wrapped up in a cashmere sweater. Think iced pumpkin lattes. Wearing a jacket to lunch but shedding it while you sit in the sunshine. Bonfires where the mosquitos have already gone away for the year and it’s safe to show skin.

The Inspiration

The energy here comes less from the pop-girlie-night-out side of Y2K style, and more from the chill day spent sipping a blueberries and cream frappuccino side. The Dixie Chicks’ Fly album cover shoot (a big moment for denim and early aughts footwear) is a good vibe reference point, as is Byrdie’s guide to the moody ‘90s manicure.

At Copenhagen Fashion Week last fall, the streets were full of cute girls in jeans and flops. Scandi style worships fun but semi-safe color options, and navy on the toes is a surprise that still feels fairly home-y. The flip flops and jeans combo does the same trick.

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How to Get the Look

Unlike, say, a bob, this is a super easy and quick trend to pull off this fall. All you need is your favorite dark nail polish! If you hate it, remover is easy to come by. (I promise Big Apple Red will always be waiting.)

Manucurist has a classic Navy Blue, and OPI’s Aquarius Renegade is lovely with a bit of pearly sheen. If you’re team berry but not blueberry, I’d go for Essie’s Berry Naughty or Zoya’s Brynlee, and OPI’s Lincoln Park After Dark is a near-black purple that suits the trend perfectly.

As far as the outfitting part goes? There’s not much to explain! After painting your toenails, you throw on your favorite pair of jeans and flip flops. You go out in the world. You look cool. You find comfort in the fact that summer will someday come again, and the Havaianas don’t have to retire just yet.