In 2020, the adage "dressed with nowhere to go" has taken on new meaning. And now that we are beyond a full year of isolation, I am sure we can all think of ourselves as comfort dori (open in new tab). But as the most wonderful time of the year (summer, not Christmas (open in new tab)) approaches, we are faced with the reality that we can no longer hide among the good old Uggs. So let's ditch our fuzzy friends and introduce a new warm-weather companion: the Birkenstock.

Paired with pants and a tank, or sweatpants and socks for chilly summer nights, everyone absolutely needs at least one pair of Birkenstocks in their rotation. Worn and acclaimed by the likes of Kendall Jenner (open in new tab) and Gigi Hadid (open in new tab), these "ugly shoes" have a surprisingly glamorous history. From Rick Owens to Proenza Schooler, Birkenstock has collaborated with some of the industry's elite, and in March, Birkenstock partnered with Central Saint Martins, a prestigious London design university, to give four fashion students the opportunity to reimagine the quirky opportunity to reimagine quirky shoes. Another collaboration is with British multi-artist Faye Toogood (opens in new tab). Inspired by the concept of objets trouvés, the collection was molded by hand in Faye's studio, combining her approach to design with Birkenstock's original blueprints.

For me, just wearing Birkenstocks makes me feel chic in situations where kitten heels would feel over-the-top. Birkenstocks, in my opinion, are the item that keeps me grounded no matter how stylishly dressed I am. When thinking about how to incorporate this must-have wardrobe item, don't overthink it and choose something that feels right. Style is about owning what you wear. Who would have thought that sustainable sandals made of cork and jute could ease the tension between fashion and comfort?

Get a bold pair to make your denim skirt pop as you stroll around town.

"Who said Birkenstocks can't be edgy?

Paired with the Birkenstock x TooGood collaboration beachcomber sandals, this heavy knit dress and leather sandals are the perfect blend of comfort and fashion.

The perfect spring outfit. Pair a silk scarf with a pair of pant shorts for everyday chic.