Fashion

7 Ways to Wear Flatbed — aka Ugly — Sandals

So, you're ready to make the jump and join the rest of the fashion world in the ugly sandal movement, but you're not sure how to do it. They're not just regular sandals, after all. While they are the epitome of comfortable footwear, there's nothing casual about styling Birkenstocks and Tevas. It's all about fashionable strategy. The trick to wearing flatbed sandals stylishly is how you wear them and what you wear them with. Here are 10 simple ways to style your strappy, ugly-chic sandals this spring.

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by Sara Tan

WEAR THEM WITH SOCKS

Alright, so this might be a little too brazen for you. And while it may seem like a total fashion faux-pas, it’s actually completely okay to do with your flatbed and flatform sandals. And, of course, in case you missed it, the Olsens give you their blessing.

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WEAR THEM WITH SHORT SHORTS

You may have worn out your Birks last fall, but they’re the perfect sandal for spring and summer. They’ll lengthen your legs a tiny bit, so pair them with your favorite shorts to accentuate those tanned stems of yours.

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STYLE THEM WITH SLOUCHY JEANS

These ugly-pretty sandals are the perfect compliment to the slouchy jean, whichever style you’re sporting these days (mom or boyfriend). Just be sure to keep your top light, so as not to look too frumpy. A cropped top or airy tank would be the perfect addition to the bottom half of this ensemble.

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CONTRAST WITH A DRESS

Contrast the masculinity of your sandals with a dress. It could be something as basic as a LBD or an even more feminine variety, like this floral peplum piece.

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WEAR THEM WITH JOGGERS

Much like slouchy jeans, flatbed sandals are the perfect accompaniment to patterned joggers and sporty sweatpants.

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DRESS THEM UP

Sure, they’re usually reserved for casual outfits, but that shouldn’t stop you from dressing them up with a leather mini or geometric skirt.

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WEAR THEM THE WAY YOU WOULD ANY OF YOUR OTHER FLATS

If you’re ever having a moment of doubt and are completely confused how you should style your ugly-chic sandals, just create an outfit that you’d typically pair with your ballet shoes or D’orsay flats, and voila — the perfect ensemble for any flatbed footwear.

Image: AnnaHecek/Instagram

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