How to Wear Birkenstocks for Maximum Style and Comfort

Is the combination of a crisp button-down, longer shorts and Birkenstocks—all in neutral shades—particularly groundbreaking? Not necessarily, but it is one of the most foolproof summer ‘fits you can count on to keep you looking and feeling cool. Remember that when putting together a monochromatic outfit, the shades don’t have to be exact matches, just similar enough that they’re clearly from the same color family.

Though Birkenstocks come in tons of different colors at this point, we’re not all colorful shoe people. Still, if you want to think outside the navy/black/beige box without going too bold, white Birkenstocks are a great middle ground. Notice how Tracee Ellis Ross’s white sandals pop from beneath her (very on-trend) long and loose jeans without being too out there? If you’re going for ‘I like to have fun while getting dressed—but not too crazy,’ bright white is your answer.

You know those days when the last thing you want to do is search through your closet to painstakingly color-coordinate an outfit? Those days call for all-black ensembles, and luckily, Birkenstocks fit right into that equation, whether you’re in the mood for a breezy black shirtdress or shorts, a simple T-shirt and a jacket, all in shades of noir.

Once temperatures start to rise, Birkenstock Arizonas (you know, the classic two-strap sandal) are a no-brainer, but that’s not to say you should store your Bostons (the suede clogs shown above) until fall. The key to looking like you haven’t switched over to your summer wardrobe is to style Bostons with unquestionably seasonal-appropriate pieces, whether that’s a breezy, oversize button-down and loose-fitting khaki shorts or a swingy minidress.

On the flip side, you can—and should—wear Birkenstock sandals with more covered-up outfits. To avoid overheating, stick to looser silhouettes, cooling materials (like linen) and lighter colors. Follow those tips, et voila: You look like you just hopped out of a Nancy Meyers movie. (Bonus points if your partner is also rocking Birkenstocks.)

Maybe your office isn’t quite crop top-friendly, but swap out the midriff-baring tank above for a simple black or white tee and we’re willing to bet you’ll more than fit in at casual workplaces. Even if you have to swap out your coordinating sandals for a pair of loafers or even fresh white sneakers while at your desk, at least you’ll be commuting—and hitting post-work drinks—in cool Birkenstock style.

OK, we realize that this combination is not for the faint of heart, but is there anything cooler than bringing an ultra-glam outfit down to earth with casual accessories like simple Birkenstocks or even a plain tote bag? The beauty of this pairing is that because it doesn’t make a ton of sense, you really have free reign to interpret it however you like. Black Birks with a silver suit? Go for it. White platform Arizonas with a sequined midi dress? The world is your sartorial oyster.