How to Embellish Flip-Flops and Sandals with Jewelry

What says warm weather more than a pair of sandals? Embellished open-toe shoes are everywhere, ranging from elaborate rhinestone designs to large pearl-encrusted straps. The best part of this trend is that it's easy and fun to make your own pair.

The art of decorating sandals has been around for a very long time. There is even a pair of flip-flops in the Victoria and Albert Museum that were made in Egypt circa 30 BC-AD 300 and are painted with gold and decorated with a circular pattern. While embellishing footwear may not be new, there are now more ways than ever to customize the perfect flip-flop, slide or sandal.

If bling is your thing, then rhinestones and pearls are the way to go. Sometimes flip-flops and slides are considered utilitarian shoes, but add some sparkly and shiny components and they transform into something luxurious. Use large flat-back rhinestones to create the feel of an expensive piece of jewelry or mix in pearl elements to get a playful Regency/modern hybrid. Use rhinestones in unusual shapes, like a faceted cube, with black sandals for an avant-garde look.

Leather sandals come in styles that range from casual to posh. If you want more of a boho aesthetic, seed beads are ideal. Choose a sandal with wide sections that can accommodate beaded designs. A brown suede sandal combined with a Southwestern palette--like turquoise and orange--will give a timeless, breezy feel to your shoes. For an upscale look, opt for sandals with smooth leather in rich tones and decorate them with opulent metallic seed beads and components.

When selecting a glue, choose one that is flexible and has a longer working time. If the surface is fabric, Crafter's Pick™ Jewel Bond™ is an excellent non-toxic choice. Another is E6000® which creates a durable, flexible bond. To create a durable hold on smooth surfaces, like vinyl or leather, prep the area that is to be glued by lightly rubbing with sandpaper.