Not even fashion people can resist the lure of a comfortable shoe, which might help explain the industry’s latest footwear obsession: Birkenstock Boston clogs. Yes, you read that right—clogs, and from none other than the original “dad sandal” brand, which is known for its humble contoured summer shoes. Would you believe me if I said every fashion person I know either owns or is scrambling to find a pair of these slip-on shoes right now? Because it’s true.
When you think about it, though, it makes sense. In recent years, fashion has revelled in reclaiming “ugly” items and making them covetable—think track-soled boots and fisherman sandals—and Birkenstocks have played a huge part in that. They may not be “glamorous,” but over time, the brand’s simple sandals have become summer capsule classics in the most stylish wardrobes. Now, Birkenstock is stocked on luxury websites like Net-a-Porter and MATCHESFASHION.COM and collaborates with brands like Manolo Blahnik— unexpected but oh-so brilliant.
Historically, the Arizona double strap sandals have been the iconic choice, but this summer, the fashion set has embraced another comfort-first Birk style: The Boston. It’s a slip-on, backless mule with a rounded toe and a buckle fastening that first launched in 1977, so you know it’s already stood the test of time. Even I’ll admit I was less than convinced when I saw early adopters like Lucy Williams and Monikh sporting this style last summer. But here I am, wearing my now very-much-beloved pair while I sit typing this. I’ve been won over by so many influencers wearing them with cool outfits (keep scrolling for more of those), and by how gosh-darn comfortable they are.
It turns out that these simple shoes perfectly capture the low-key, laid-back mood everyone is embracing this season—think major “coastal grandmother” vibes. I love that all you need to add to them is a ribbed vest and a good pair of jeans for the perfect summer 2023 look, which is exactly how I’ve been wearing mine pretty much every day since I got them. But they also go with dresses, wide-leg trousers, shorts and skirts, and I can imagine them coming into their own during the great British summertime—on staycations, beach days, countryside wanderings or for running errands to the local farmers market.
Keep scrolling to shop the shoes, and see some styling inspiration too.
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