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.
My dream outfit, centered around Bikenstock’s Boston Clogs.
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 over the last few summers, the fashion set have embraced another comfort-first Birk style: The Boston clog. 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 a couple of years ago. 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.
White denim + grey socks + taupe clogs = a dream combination.
It turns out that these simple shoes perfectly capture the low-key, laid-back mood everyone is embracing this season, and now that there are Birkenstock’s shearling clogs in the mix, they work just as well in the colder months as they do in the warmer ones. Right now I’d combine a shearling pair with some grey ribbed socks, loose-fit jeans, an oversized jumper and a warm coat. But I love that all you need to add to them is a ribbed vest and a good pair of jeans for the perfect summer 2024 look, which is exactly how I’ll be planning on wearing mine next year. But they also go with dresses, wide-leg trousers, shorts and skirts, and they really come into their own when paired with casual outfits—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.
Tan is a failsafe option and goes with every possible outfit colour.
These feature and embossed suede finish and look particularly good with denim.
Khaki is always surprisingly versatile.
Monikh has a darker pair and they’re perfect for taking into the winter months.
There are only a couple of sizes left in these, so don’t delay.
It’s the bronze buckle that does it for me—a chic detail.
There are sleek leather versions is suede isn’t your thing.
You can’t go wrong with this suede beige pair.
A pair on sale? It’s a miracle!
Brown is still trending into 2024.
Add cashmere socks and loungewear for a cosy weekend look.
For the die-hard fans out there, Birkenstock has collaborated with Tekla on these shearling-lined, sporty-looking colourful options.
A classic you’ll wear on repeat.
For the people who can’t resist a grey outfit.
Shearling comes on the outside too!
Literally just throw on and go!
I wear mine with tailored trousers (and everything else).
Proof they go with wide-leg trousers as well as jeans.
The perfect slip-on style to pull together a warm-weather outfit.
Monikh says to wear them with dresses, too!
I love the idea of wearing them on the beach during British summertime.
I’ve been wearing this outfit on repeat.
Just so easy.
Up Next: The headline shoes trends of 2024.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
