You see them everywhere. They are worn in the warm days of the spring with a pair of khakis or in the dead of winter underneath fleece pants. Whether you like them or not, you cannot deny that Rainbow sandals have become one of the most prevalent fashion phenomena on Grounds since Ralph Lauren opened in 1967.
According to Jocelyn Churchman Pugh, owner of the Corner Outlet, which sells Rainbows sandals, the popularity of the flip flops continues to rise.
"They are so popular mostly because they are so comfortable," Pugh said.
In addition to their comfort, students also mentioned that the shoes' longevity adds to their appeal.
Katie Ergen, a first-year College student, said she views the sandals as a long-term commitment.
"Rainbows is rewarding because the longer you wear them the more comfortable you get," Ergen said. "It's a long term investment."
Kathleen Kiernan, a first-year College student, opted for the hemp ones after a long-term resentment toward the trendy sandals.
"I refused to buy them for a long time because everyone had them, but then I caved in," she said. "I bought the hemp ones because no one really has them."
The color of the Rainbows was the ultimate deciding factor for Kiernan.
"I caved in because they're neutral and go with everything," she said.
Even though it is possible to find Rainbows in darker colors of brown and black, it's the neutral color that catches the hearts of many.
"The tan leather ones sell the most," Pugh said. "People have the other colors, but not as much as the neutral ones."
Not only does the tan leather version outsell the others, it also has exceeded the sale of other brands.
"I had ordered some in January for Spring Break and by March we were sold out," Pugh said. "Rainbows outsell everything."
Kiernan said she does not believe many other brands can compete with Rainbows.
"In my opinion the only sandals that could maybe rival Rainbows are Dr. Scholl's and Jack Rogers," she said.
The popularity of the California-based sandals company is far from southern.
"They are also very big in Colorado," said Ergen, who hails from the state. "And I have seen them in South America as well."
The world famous sandals might seem pricy for some -- the prices range from $36 to 46 depending on if you want a leather, a premier leather or a hemp pair. But Kiernan said she thinks it's worth it.
"I can see that people might find it pricey," she said. "But I think they are good priced for how much you get out of them"
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