10 Stylish Fall Outfits That Highlight Just How Versatile Birkenstocks Are

The love of Birkenstocks knows no season.

As an editor by trade and a stylist by nature, my core memories are stored in my closet. And though I get abnormally attached to all my clothes, my Birkenstocks are one of the items I cherish the very most. My favorite pair of silver Mayari sandals have walked the dusty streets of Pompeii, the dirty streets of New York City, and the gravel streets of my hometown; They’ve been splashed with swamp water in the Everglades and dropped into tide pools on the Big Sur; I even wore them on my 20th birthday on the Amalfi Coast.

All this is to say, there’s really nothing a good pair of Birkenstocks can’t do. Spring and summer are when they really shine, but don’t pack away your favorites just yet just because temperatures are dropping. The cozy, comfy shoe can easily become a fall basic if you style it properly.

With a natural-looking soul, a warm leather outer, and, often, a neutral suede colorway, they actually have all the makings of a perfect fall shoe. So if your brain is still set to “summer,” it’s time to flip the switch to autumnal style. Here are all the cutest fall Birkenstock outfits that will do your favorite shoes some justice.

With a Big, Cozy Sweater

You know that effortlessly chill, “just came from the beach” vibe that’s usually reserved only for surfers? Well, that's the very look that Birkenstocks can help you achieve. Pair the warm weather favorite with your biggest, coziest sweater and a pair of lightweight linen pants to give off that same easy-breezy look.

With Autumnal Checks

Like virtually everything else in your closet (leather, florals, leopard print, the list goes on), Birkenstocks pair incredibly well with a classic fall tartan. The print is an autumnal signature and will immediately make any look feel worthy of the season—even transitional pieces, like your go-to Arizona sandals.

With a White Button-Up

Whenever I’m struggling to style something, I reach for my favorite white button-down and a classic ribbed tank, regardless of the season. This is especially true during the fall when it’s time to make my summer favorites feel like fall favorites. Add a simple pair of khaki pants and an expensive-looking belt for a ready-made look you can pop on and go.

Leather On Leather

Though suede Boston clogs are the most iconic style, leather Birkenstocks are easily the most stylish. They feel more polished than their camel-colored counterparts and add a bit of edge to any look. Play up that vibe by adding even more faux leather to your look. They’ll look right at home with pleather midi dresses, cropped pants, or moto jackets.

With Socks

While this pairing should be approached with extreme caution (for obvious dad-associated reasons), it can be done well. Lean into the cottagecore of it all by styling the duo with a flowy midi or maxi dress. Finish with your boxiest blazer and, if you want to dedicate yourself fully to the aesthetic, a matching bandana.

With a Pop of Color

Your first instinct for Birkenstock styling probably includes a whole lot of neutrals. And while I don’t discourage that (in fact, I absolutely recommend it), there is the opportunity for a more playful approach. Black pairs look stunning against a vibrant pop of red or blue. Try a colorful cardigan to copy this Gwyneth Paltrow-approved ’fit.

With Luxe Accessories

Thanks to Mary-Kate Olsen, carrying a tattered and worn Birkin bag has become a flex, giving a casual feel to such a coveted item. It's safe to argue that's the epitome of stylishness. And that same rule applies to Birkenstock—in reverse. No matter how tattered they may be, wear them with your most lavish accessories for a mix of high-low that feels wearable and real. 

With a Monochrome Outfit

Birkenstocks are like a well-tailored trench coat: they go with anything. But if you find yourself drawing a stylistic blank, it’s that exact piece you should reach for. Layer your favorite khaki jacket with trousers and a sweater for a fall outfit that looks chic-girl, but feels “soft girl.”

With a Cardigan

Even the most prim and proper cardigan feels chill when paired with a pair of Birkenstocks—the unofficial footwear of the effortlessly cool. Undo a couple of buttons at the top and bottom, then slip into a pair of baggy jeans for an all-occasion outfit.

With Other Transitional Pieces

Birks aren’t the only summer go-to you can utilize in the fall. Longline shorts can also be transitioned into the new season with just a few simple additions. Layer them with a blouse, blazer, and (you guessed it!) Birkenstocks for those days when the weather simply cannot make up its mind.

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