Bernardo Mistral Sandals

There are two things you learn quickly about Los Angeles. The first is that nearly everybody wears flat shoes and second is that more often than not (especially with the introduction to Havainnas), it’s a flip flop. Oh, there was a time where the Scholl style shoe was hot, either in the old school type or versions by LV or Chanel, but the one shoe you’ll see everybody wearing, regardless of age or gender, is the classic flip flop shoe in everything from leather to plastic to rubber. It’s fabulous because they’re comfortable and cheap, but it’s not exactly the item that works with everything in your closet. Every season, you start the hunt for a good flip flop alternative – something flat, strappy, comfortable and versatile, but as far away from that classic thong style as possible Luckily, there are always a few good options.

For 2010, it’s turning up in the form of a somewhat grecian style – almost a t-strap on a flat sole with a buckle in the back in leather, either available in traditional colors or metallics. Some are wide at the top, some very skinny, and all on a flat sole, perfect for summer. Madison, one of the boutique chains here (and among my favorite stores) has two styles of this nature by a fairly established shoe company called Bernardo. I’ve checked them out on several scouts for “Out and About” but never tried anything on. That changed today, and I came home with the company’s Mistral style.

At first glance, the shoe looks as if it’d be uncomfortable – it has a completely open front, with exception to the strap that comes up over the top of the foot, giving the sense that it lacks the structure to support. The leather is amazing – for it’s price ($95), it has every bit the feel of decent quality, very soft, supple. It’s construction seems equally as good – sturdy straps, a nice sole under and a padded foot bed at top. I tried it on and instantly fell in love with the feel. Very comfortable.

I swapped out my Havainnas after purchasing to get a sense of what they’d do with a bit of walking, and this shoe performed equally as well. I found that there was a bit of sliding about but nothing unusual or absolutely noticable, and even after an hour of hitting stores in Malibu, they felt great on. I especially like how it updates my look for the season, completely fresh in the wake of Kors Grand Prix, Birkenstocks and Island Pride styling (as well as flip flops!) from last season. Overall, they’re gorgeous.

It still remains to be seen if this shoe makes the grade over the long haul but I’d say given the way the material is, its construction and overall feel, it’ll be just fine for months to come. Best part? It’s so freaking cute – this is exactly what I need to carry me into Summer.

The Specifics
Material: Genuine Leather

Sizing: Runs a bit small. I took a 7 in this shoe but am traditionally a 6

Care: Leather protector, cleaning when needed.

Price: $95.