Are you curious about how to style Birkenstocks? Although the German footwear brand has been around since 1774, it wasn’t until the ‘60s and ‘70s when they really gained popularity in the U.S., especially among the festival-going flower children at the time.
These days, men, women, and even children from all walks of life are curious about how to wear Birkenstock sandals, especially as the brand has recently had quite the revival among in-the-know trendsetters.
A big part of Birkenstocks’ charm is their laid-back vibe, so don’t feel stressed if your personal style doesn’t align with our suggestions. Here are just a few of our favorite ways to wear these iconic sandals.
1. Embrace the Relaxed Hippie Vibe
The first step when learning how to style Birkenstocks is to recognize that they’re typically super informal. While they can look sharp with the right outfit, their power is truly in their unpretentious, chilled-out aesthetic.
With that in mind, don’t be afraid to add a little bit of hippie flair to your look to keep it cohesive. That doesn’t necessarily mean flowers and peace signs, but a floral-patterned boho-chic shawl or an oversized kimono, for example, can really make the ensemble pop.
Of course, you don’t want your outfit to look like a costume, especially if you don’t typically wear ‘60s and ‘70s vintage or vintage-inspired clothing. Part of learning how to style Birkenstocks is understanding how to take elements from that look and incorporate them naturally. The most important part is that you feel comfortable and confident. As you learn how to wear Birkenstock sandals, embrace the vibe without going too overboard.
2. Keep It Comfy and Casual
Hippie is optional! You can still achieve a laid-back aesthetic without going back in time. For example, a pair of on-purpose-sweatpants and a slouchy hoodie could work great on those days when you want an effortless look for running errands, or pair them with shorts and a tee for a simple look that just works.
Birkenstocks are relatively bulky compared to other sandals, so they work great with baggy and oversized apparel. However, as you learn about how to style Birkenstocks, don’t be afraid to go against the grain. These days, oversized footwear is a major trend, so pairing your Birkenstocks with slim-fitting clothes could work perfectly. The key is to create your outfit with intention.
3. Pair Them With Jeans
Birkenstocks and denim are a match made in heaven. Just like Birkenstocks, jeans (and denim skirts, shorts, and jackets) are famously laid-back, care-free pieces. Try pairing your Birks with baggy jeans, ideally cuffed at least above the ankle. Distressed jeans can add a cool, grungy vibe that really works well with Birkenstocks.
4. Make Them the Focal Point of Your Outfit
Birkenstocks can certainly be subtle, but when considering how to style Birkenstocks, don’t overlook them as a statement piece. If you’re not sure how to wear Birkenstock sandals, just go all-in! Bold colors and patterns can provide an attractive contrast to neutral and earth-toned clothing. Wearing a skirt or cuffed pants is a great way to give them some space. In short, don’t cover them up!
5. Socks and a Flannel
Socks and sandals are a famous faux pas to the point of being a cultural joke (perhaps even unfairly, but that’s a topic for another day). But, Birkenstocks are one of the few sandal styles that can really work with the right socks. On an autumn day, some warm socks and Birks is such a cozy, homey look, and especially when paired with your favorite flannel shirt or even a sweater.
Perhaps the most important rule when learning how to style Birkenstocks is that comfort is top priority. After all, many Birkenstock enthusiasts have had pairs for years or even decades—they’re like the comfort food of shoes!
6. Keep it Simple
If you’re not sure how to wear Birkenstock sandals, just wear them exactly the same way you would wear any other casual sandals. They’re not sports sandals, so avoid soccer shorts, board shorts, athleisure pieces, and anything else that would be at home in the gym. Instead, pair your Birks with the more casual pieces in your wardrobe. What would you wear on an outdoor coffee date on a summer day? Pair your Birks with that.
Save on Authentic Birkenstocks
Now that you have a better idea of how to style Birkenstocks, why not add a pair or two to your collection? As an authorized dealer, we have some incredible deals on 100% authentic, brand new Birkenstock sandals for men, women, and even kids. You’ll find some fantastic end-of-season discounts that allow you to own your dream pair of Birks at a very budget-friendly price point. We carry footwear from plenty of other well-known brands too, including Minnetonka, Teva, UGG, and so much more. Shop now!
