Fashion

Are Birkenstocks Still In Style?

by Melanie Richtman

I remember back in middle school, Birkenstock clogs were all the rage. Everyone had a pair of those suede clogs.. However, Birkenstock also makes sandals, which definitely had more long-term potential — at least when it comes to my closet. But the real question is: Will Birkenstocks be in style for spring and summer 2016?

The answer is yes. Birkenstock sandals have been slowly appearing in high fashion lookbooks and runway shows for spring and summer 2016. Maison Kitsune — a Parisian brand, so you know it's cool — included Birkenstocks throughout its look book. And generally speaking, if Parisians think something is cool, the rest of the world is willing to follow in their footsteps (pun intended). Other designers who have showed their support for Birkenstocks include Michael Kors, who featured Birkenstock sandals in his Spring 2016 Menswear presentation. They're becoming more widespread with each passing second.

If that doesn't convince you of the return of the Birkenstock, Footwear News talked to buyers back in June about what they thought were going to be the hit shoes for spring 2016, and almost all of them mentioned Birkenstocks. Birkenstock sandals are back, and your feet will probably thank you.

If you're not sold on Birkenstocks quite yet, there are several other sandal trends that will be hot for spring 2016, which you can shop for now, because spring is right around the corner, and I couldn't be happier about it.

Lace-up Sandals

FARIAND Suede Lace Up Sandal, $30, asos.com

These sandals were super hot last summer and their dominance will continue this Spring. If you were all about this trend last summer, you can step it up a notch with lace-up block heels, like these.

Mules

Factory Margo Leather Mules, $69, factory.jcrew.com

Especially with the '70s being a large influence for fashion this Spring, it's no surprise that mules have made a comeback. If you really supported Birkenstock clogs back in the day, you could consider getting a pair of clogs that mimic these heeled mules. Target has an affordable pair that are pretty dang cute.

Flatforms

Simple Slingback Flatform Sandals, $31, 2020ave.com

With platforms being a huge trend this past fall, it's no surprise that platform sandals are next. You get all of the added height with none of the discomfort of a dramatic heel or wedge. And they just look cool AF.

Images: Xavi Torrent/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images; Courtesy Brands