The Olsen-Approved "Ugly" Shoes That Everyone's Wearing

Ready for the resurgence of "ugly" shoes? So are we. Sure, there have been specific styles that simply won't quit (chunky loafers, we're looking directly at you), but looking at the biggest shoe trends to hit this year, it seems as though we've reached the peak of the craze. Now that we're in the midst of warmer days, it's time to hone in on one particular shoe style that's left a room divided: Birkenstocks.

Many brands have reimagined Birkenstock's iconic Arizona sandals for a fashion-forward take on the podiatrist-approved shoes, and some, like Valentino and Rick Owens, have even collaborated with the brand for a high-fashion spin. But let's be real: Nothing comes quite as close to the one that started it all. Just ask fashion's favorite It girls.

From Gigi Hadid and Kendall Jenner to Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen (along with the chicest style-setters), Birkenstocks have become one of the most beloved pairs of "ugly" sandals in the closets of fashion lovers everywhere.

If you're ready to get on board with the trend and want to sport your own Birkenstock outfits, scroll through to see how our favorite celebs and It girls are wearing the two-strap slide sandals now.

On Celebrities

Ashley Olsen wearing white poplin shirt, leggings, and black Birkenstock sandals on New York stoop

Ashley Olsen

(Image credit: Backgrid)

Style Tip: Style these sandals like an Olsen and wear them with a timeless button-down shirt and trousers.

Tracee Ellis Ross walking by a car wearing bright floral dress with black birkenstocks

Tracee Ellis Ross

(Image credit: Backgrid)

Style Tip: Follow in Tracee Ellis Ross's footsteps by pairing the shoes with a colorful dress this spring or summer.

Charlize Theron wearing black graphic t-shirt, white jeans, and white birkenstocks in parking lot

Charlize Theron

(Image credit: Backgrid)

Style Tip: For your more casual moments, opt for a pair of white jeans with a graphic T-shirt.

Kendall Jenner wearing red sweater, gray trousers, and brown Birkenstocks with socks

Kendall Jenner

(Image credit: Splash)

Style Tip: Give socks with sandals a try. It may be "ugly" to some, but we welcome the comfort.

Kaia Gerber wearing long grey coat, black sweater, cropped jeans, and black Birkenstocks with socks

Kaia Gerber

(Image credit: Backgrid)

Style Tip: Need to dress up your socks-and-sandals look for a low-key evening out? Layer a longline coat over your shoulders.

Emma Roberts wearing workout top, leggings, and black Birkenstocks

Emma Roberts

(Image credit: Splash)

Style Tip: It's no secret that Birkenstocks are perfect for your errand runs. Opt for the athleisure take with a coordinated workout set.

Gigi Hadid wearing black minidress and black Birkenstocks

Gigi Hadid

(Image credit: Backgrid)

Style Tip: Give your chic LBD a cool-girl-approved take and style it with a pair of Birks.

Emma Watson getting into a car wearing black matching sweatsuit with white Birkenstocks

Emma Watson

(Image credit: Backgrid)

Style Tip: Another option is to wear them with relaxed trousers and an easy sweater while you're on the move.

Elsa Hosk wearing cream sweater, patchwork jeans, and black Birkenstocks with socks

Elsa Hosk

(Image credit: Splash)

Style Tip: Looking for an outfit that feels comfortable, classic, and unique? Swap out your standard jeans for a cool patchwork pair.

Dakota Johnson wearing gray shirt, black leggings, and Birkenstocks

Dakota Johnson

(Image credit: Backgrid)

Style Tip: An easy sweatshirt with cropped leggings and Birkenstocks will be one of your go-to outfits for everything from gym sessions to errand runs.

On Instagram

@itsmekellieb wearing black sundress with black Birkenstocks and pink bag

(Image credit: @itsmekellieb)

Style tip: For an easy ensemble to throw on at a moment's notice, you'll never go wrong with a classic black pair of Birkenstocks styled with a slip dress.

@himichelleli wearing black printed dress with white Birkenstocks

(Image credit: @himichelleli)

Style Tip: Bring out the white accents of your ensemble with Birkenstock's white version of the Arizona sandals.

@vbiancav wearing gray sweater, yellow shorts, and white Birkenstocks with socks

(Image credit: @vbiancav)

Style Tip: If you feel like dressing on the cozier side, style a fluffy sweater with socks and sandals. If it's warmer out, opt for a pair of shorts on the bottom.

@meccajw wearing printed T-shirt, pleated midi skirt, and pink metallic Birkenstocks

(Image credit: @meccajw)

Style Tip: If you want to create a modern take on prep-school style, pair a pleated skirt with a crop top and Birkenstock sandals.

@aemiliafay wearing tie-dye sweatshirt with black Birkenstocks

(Image credit: @aemiliafay)

Style Tip: If you happen to be going camping or on a road trip soon, wear your favorite biker shorts and a sweatshirt with the sandals.

Michelle Li wearing orange pants, gray T-shirt with pink glitter Birkenstocks

(Image credit: @himichelleli)

Style Tip: Anyone who's looking for a maximalist-approved way to sport Birkenstocks will love wearing a glittery pair with vibrant pants.

This article was originally published at an earlier date and has been updated.

Dale Arden Chong
Editor