For me, Birkenstock clogs conjure an image of my dad tending to plants in the garden. He didn't necessarily own this exact style, but, in my mind, slip-on thick-soled shoes have an unshakable association with garden work. Even now, the garden door in our family house is lined with such slip-on shoes. (Mostly Crocs, to be honest. Sorry, Birkenstock!)
Imagine my surprise, then, when they started popping up on the feet of stylish women, worn in the city rather than around the home. With preppy wide-leg trousers and a sweater rather than trackies and an old t-shirt.
In a way, it's a good thing they're trending: they're comfy! Although it's important to remember that they need to be broken in first, so the cork sole moulds to your feet. Plus, they're actually good for you, unlike most trendy shoes. The wide toebox allows your toes to spread, which is how our feet should naturally be. (And it's why constantly wearing narrow shoes is damaging.)
So, how to style an ugly shoe to make it fashionable? Let us give you some pointers on how to incorporate the Birkenstock clog into your outfit, depending on the vibe you want to give off.
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Chic
We've identified three contexts in which you might want to wear your Birkenstock clogs. The first being: as part of a chic outfit. Perhaps you want to look put together, but you've got a bit of walking to do. Elaborate, heeled shoes look amazing, but your feet start to protest after a minor amount of walking. Luckily, this shouldn't be the case with the Birkenstock clogs, provided you have taken the time to break them in properly. (The cork sole needs to mould to your foot!)
In this context, we'd recommend an unfussy but high-quality look in a neutral colour, such as a matching knit set. It might feel strange to match an elegant outfit with such a utilitarian shoe, but it works. Opposites often attract, especially when it comes to fashion. Birkenstocks in a neutral shade will make it easier to achieve the sophisticated look. If you really want to elevate the outfit, perhaps match the colour of the shoes to your handbag. Finish it off with some chunky gold earrings, the latest sunglasses and maybe a bangle or stack of rings. The devil is in the details.
Relaxed
Next up is a more relaxed style. Depending on the season, you can achieve this look with shorts or long, wide trousers. Jeans go with anything, of course, plus a long hem and wide leg will balance the proportions of the outfit. If the trouser leg covers the shoe a bit, even better – this will incorporate the clogs into your outfit so naturally that people may barely notice them. Inject some excitement into the outfit with fun accessories and statement details: trendy sunglasses, a metallic bag or a fringed jacket.
Cosy
Finally, this is the sort of comfy outfit you might picture when thinking of the Birkenstock clog. The main ingredient of the look is a cosy coat, like a shearling or puffer jacket. While this might work best in the colder months, you could easily swap out the heavy-duty coat for something a bit lighter: a sweatshirt, a blanket scarf or shawl or even an oversized t-shirt. As long as you're cosy! On the bottom, a pair of wide trousers in a neutral colour will do all the work. And if you want a pop of fun, go for a statement bag: something with a cool print or texture.
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