It's True: These Affordable Sandals Make Every Summer Outfit Look Expensive
Not everyone has embraced the Birkenstock Renaissance with open arms. Sure, the divisive slides are a little less refined than a Chanel ballet flat or Castañer espadrille, but there's no denying their presence in many a cool person's wardrobe.
So, why is this basic sandal so beloved? Originally released in 1973, Birkenstock's two-strap Arizona style boasts one thing above all else: comfort. Until you've tried it, you truly can't comprehend the satisfaction of sliding your foot onto that cork bed and feeling it mould to its shape.
But there has to be an aesthetic reason, too—let's face it, if comfort was our only criteria we'd wear slippers to work (although arguably Birkenstocks are comfier)—and I think I've cracked it. It seems that adding these casual slides to an outfit instantly makes it feel effortless. Wearing a dress that feels too formal for a laid-back lunch date? Slip on some Birks. Spent hours curating an outfit but want it to read as relaxed? Only one sandal will do.
Below, you'll find six simple looks that prove just how true this is. If you've been sitting on the fence where Birkenstocks are concerned, we're pretty sure these outfits will convert you.
1. Linen Dress + Birkenstocks
Style Notes: Is it even summer without linen? Our answer is a resounding "no", so we recommend investing in a breezy dress to keep you cool on hot days.
Shop the look:
2. Breton Tee + Straight-Leg Jeans + Birkenstocks
Style Notes: Birkenstock sandals might be trending right now, but they can easily be slotted into classic outfit combinations such as a striped tee and blue jeans.
Shop the look:
3. Crop Top + Linen Trousers + Birkenstocks
Style Notes: I'll be living in this chic combination all summer long. Birkenstocks are a key ingredient in making it feel as fuss-free and everyday-appropriate as possible.
Shop the look:
The back strap offers extra support.
4. Waistcoat + Shorts + Birkenstocks
Style Notes: Fashion people are fully embracing the waistcoat this season, wearing it as a top rather than a companion to suiting. Add slides to give the smart style a down-to-earth spin.
Shop the look:
This would also look great layered over a T-shirt.
5. Blazer + Athleisure + Birkenstocks
Style Notes: This is the perfect running-errands ensemble, in my opinion. It's polished, comfortable and on-trend in equal measure.
Shop the look:
6. Maxi Dress + Birkenstocks
Style Notes: On sunny summer weekends, let your floor-grazing maxi dresses do the talking and keep the footwear simple. Enter Birkenstocks.
Shop the look:
This neutral shade will go with literally everything.
Shop Other Birkenstock Styles:
Birkenstock's Boston clogs sit right up there with the Arizonas in terms of popularity. In fact, they may even surpass the sandals. Influencers like Monikh Dale, Francesca Saffari and Lucy Williams love wearing theirs all year round.
Next Up: Trust Me—These 5 Sandals Will See You Through the Entire Summer
Bébhinn Campbell is an Edinburgh-based fashion and lifestyle writer and editor. She started her first blog at age 14 and went on to intern at publications in Berlin and London, including Dazed Confused and Indie magazine.
A job at a fashion startup took Bébhinn from Ireland to Scotland in 2019, where she now works as a freelance journalist and copywriter covering everything from travel and interiors to styling advice. As a contributor toBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing , Bébhinn always keeps her eyes peeled for emerging trends and looks worth writing about. She prides herself on her ability to cut through the noise and identify solid investment buys, exciting new brands and fresh takes on classic design.
-
35 Incredibly Chic Finds I Immediately Shared With My Fashion-Editor Friends When I Found Them
They're so good I want them all.
-
If You Hate Flip-Flops, Try the Viral Sandal Trend Everyone With Good Taste Is Wearing This Summer
You can trust me.
-
I Just Wore Those Viral Jelly Shoes That Are Selling Out Everywhere for 9 Hours—This Is What Shocked Me
Here's my firsthand review.
-
Not to Be Dramatic, But These Are the Only 35 Summer Sandals That Matter
To me, at least.
-
Stylish Women in L.A., London, and Lisbon Agree: This Is How to Wear Sandals With Trousers in 2025
Free your toes.
-
So You Have an Eye on Everything Designer But Not the Budget—31 Luxe-Looking Finds That Scratch the Itch
Everything is under $150.
-
7 Gorgeous Sandal Trends Fashion People Will Be Wearing in 2025
You won't stop staring at your feet.
-
Jennifer Lawrence Has Traded Her Sneakers for the Trendiest Summer Sandals of 2025
Will you join her?