Looking stylish in summer has its challenges. When you don’t have the luxury of layers, it’s much more difficult to come up with outfits that feel pulled-together. That’s why every piece you wear needs to earn its place–and it’s prudent to have outfit combinations in the back of your mind which always look good, be it white basics and denim or oversized shirts with jorts. This summer’s winning formula? Birkenstock Arizonas and baggy jeans.
How to Wear Birkenstocks and Jeans:
Its success lies in its simplicity. There’s no need for meticulous styling or overthinking—and it’s a look that delivers on so many fronts: it’s uncomplicated, practical, comfortable and, above all, effortlessly cool. Even if you’ve only five minutes to decide what you’re wearing, it’s more than enough time to pull on some jeans and slide into your Birks—finish it off with a white T-shirt or tank, and you’re good to go.
That’s why it’s become the off-duty cool-girl uniform. Over the years, it’s been endorsed by everyone from Julianne Moore to Tracey Ellis-Ross, Gigi Hadid and Kendall Jenner—mostly worn while running errands around Los Angeles. But it’s a formula that lends itself to basically any summer setting, including vacations and city breaks, or even for suffering through the heatwave somewhere in London.
Though countless Birkenstock silhouettes are walking around the Vogue offices on a daily basis, the best for summer is the classic Arizona (characterized by the signature double strap and molded footbed). It comes in many finishes—leather, suede, EVA—and colors, from neutrals to brights. We’d recommend choosing something understated, be it a taupe, brown or black, that will work with everything and won’t suffer the seasonal trend cycle; if you want a pair that feels less ubiquitous, go for the brand’s limited edition 1774 collection (a collaboration with Repetto drops this summer).
When it comes to the denim, keep it relaxed. While a structured, straight-leg would also look good, something that pools a little around the ankles will look even more luxurious and intentional. Anything from a wide-leg to a baggy fit, a barrel silhouette or balloon jeans will suit—and they’re comfortable, too, which is always a plus. For the top half, keep it pared-back with elevated basics—think T-shirts, polo tops, button-downs. The kind of effortless pieces that always look considered.
To make things easier, we’re rounding up our favorite Birks—and the denim they’d best pair with. Discover for yourself why they’re a perfect match.
