World's most expensive thongs

Forget Jimmy Choos, Manolo Blahniks, and Christian Louboutins. We've found some fancy footwear that makes those designer heels look like chump change. These Chipkos sandals cost a whopping $18,000!

These flip-flops are not covered in diamonds or crafted from exotic alligator skin, but they are unique. Each pair is hand painted by Los Angeles artist David Palmer in an abstract, Jackson-Pollock type style. The Chipkos emblem is also made out of solid 18 carat eco-friendly gold by Readers Fine Jewelers in Santa Monica.

Related links:
PICS: David Jones spring/summer parade
PICS: Gisele Bundchen models new underwear range

But the $18,000 doesn't just buy you a pair of non-waterproof flip-flops. The proceeds will help protect 100,000 square feet of endangered rainforest in Costa Rica. While we certainly appreciate fashion items for a good cause, we'd probably rather just donate money to the World Wildlife Foundation or another cause to help save important habitats.

If you are interested in some fancy flip-flops and making a donation, Chipkos has a more affordable option. They have a site-wide Stand for Square Feet program, and any pair you buy will help protect 100 square feet of an endangered rainforest. The regular flip-flops range from $42 to $58—still expensive for beach footwear, but the donation may make them worth the price.

Related links:
Topshop to open flagship Aussie stores
Trend alert: Bright coloured pants
GALLERY: Stars show off their bras