Every designer from Phoebe Philo to Rachel Zoe has embraced the casual comfort of Birkenstocks (not Victoria Beckham, though – I’m pretty sure hell would have to freeze over first), adopting the shoe style into high fashion in record time and delighting many a Style Snob in the process. You may not have loved the look of Birkenstocks before, but can you resist a pair crafted by Riccardo Tisci? I thought not! Give your heels a day off, and slip into something a little more comfortable…
Isabel Marant Elva Bow Tie Thong Sandal: If you’re not ready to try the classic double buckle, start slow with a take on Birkenstock’s Gizeh style. At Barneys New York for $510.
Isabel Marant Holden Cross-Front Slides: While slides typically reside poolside or at home, these days you’re just as likely to see them on the front row at NYFW. At MATCHESFASHION.COM for $510.
Giambattista Valli Studded Leather Pool Slides: Like I said, boring brown Birks? Not if it’s up to Giambattista! It feels safe to say that this is the one and only time I’ll call pool slides edgy. At MATCHESFASHION.COM for $834.
Givenchy Double-Buckle Sandals: First we had rose-printed Givenchys and now bold, metallic gold. The days of Birkenstocks helping you fly under the radar are over. At Barneys New York for $850.
Zara Leather Sandal with Buckles: Then again, actual Birkenstocks tend to fall below the $100 mark. For those who don’t want to splurge on fancier incarnations, you can always turn to Zara for a Frugal-friendly option. At Zara for $99.90.
