After Weeks of Searching, I've Finally Found The Ultimate Flat Shoe for Spring

Not even fashion people can resist the lure of a comfortable shoe, which might help explain the industry's spring 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.

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 capsule classics in the most stylish wardrobes. Now, Birkenstock is stocked on luxury websites like Net-a-Porter and collaborated 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.

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. 

Shop Birkenstock Boston Clogs:

Shop Birkenstock Shearling Clogs:

See Styling Ideas for Birkenstock Bostons:

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.