Written by Natasha Lawrence

But did they ever really leave?

Birkenstocks (or Birks, because who has time for the full word), have never been the prettiest, most feminine sandal. I had them in my pre-teen years for family vacations, because my mother said they are better for walking. I re-purchased a pair in my early twenties for a backpacking trip. I was tempted to buy a pair in 2016, when Ashley Olsen wore them all summer. Then, last summer, after spotting them on the likes of Jamie Mizrahi, I bought two new pairs. I soon started seeing them in Porter Magazine, on the ever-so-fashionable Maja Wyh, and on every other style icon I follow on Instagram. Finally, the peak was reached when this summer, Proenza Schouler collaborated with Birkenstock. Clearly, these shoes that provide comfort to many, have become a must have Summer 2020 item.

While they don’t make my foot look elegant, they are surprisingly flattering, and are a go-to for my everyday summer dressing. I consider them to be an upgraded flip-flop, which actually makes it perfect for our current situation. On grocery store runs, my Birks are elevating my thrown together looks and making me feel more put together. Before quarantine, taking cues from the pictured style icons below, I have been styling them with everything from my Aviator Nation tracks to Bermuda shorts, and black skinny jeans.

Now the questions lies: Do I splurge on the Proenza Schouler one’s?