Ugly chic shoes are back in full force this summer. Given all the time we’re spending at home, it’s perhaps not a surprise that fashion trends are veering towards comfort. And beyond this craving for comfort, there’s the obvious need for functionality. Fashion insiders have shown that these shoes commonly worn by trekkers, and that your dad just might have in his closet, are great for pairing with a skirt, Bermuda shorts, dresses, and any other slightly casual outfit. So, they’re perfect for a wide variety of street styles in the summertime when temperatures rise and your feet need a bit of air. Think German sandal brand Birkenstock, which was founded in 1774 and whose ergonomic design has become a cult classic for many fashionistas.
© GettyImagesBack with a vengeance
In 2019 influencers wore these sandals in their street style with athleisure. British writer and model Alexa Chung, for example, sported a Chanel dad sandal as the perfect contrast to her beige suit. Last summer, sandals with Velcro straps and squishy platforms appeared frequently in the looks of many fashion trend setters — such as the Cloudbust sandal by Prada — in addition to more conventional raffia sandals.
© @chiaraferragniThe fun side
Although these sandals tend to come in neutral colors, mainly camel, white, and black, or a combination of the latter two, Chiara Ferragni chose to add in a splash of fun with this Chanel take on the trend. Instead of having them become the focal point of her look, she doubled down to create an incredibly colorful outfit with pink pants and a floral top.
© @pernilleteisbaekDesign variety
In her artistic Instagram posts, stylist Pernille Teisbaek has shown off some tempting designs of this trend. They range from sandals with lambskin lining to designs with flat soles and a discrete two-tone print that can pair perfectly with practical and simple looks like the monochromatic outfit seen here.
© @camillecharriereRelaxed, ultra-cool looks
The combination of relaxed garments as seen on Camille Charriere with Chanel dad sandals is subtly offset by her small bag and sunglasses. Other fashion houses such as Zimmermann have also incorporated these designs into their looks for this season.
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© ShopbopA classic
Birkenstock’s Arizona model is a classic that can easily be incorporated into your closet. It has large buckles, is made of leather and has a rubber sole. Shopbop ($150).
© FarfetchRidged soles
These Buffalo sandals have thick soles, white leather straps with pink lining, designer insoles, and ridged rubber outsoles. Farfetch ($115).
© Free PeopleWater-resistant
The Hurricane Drift sandals by Teva are water resistant, lightweight, and functional. They have hook-and-loop ankle closures and are made of molded EVA. Free People ($40).
© Charles & KeithAthletic
This three-color design looks quite athletic and is sure to help you stand out from the crowd thanks to its sturdy sole and Velcro and buckle straps. Charles & Keith ($56).
© ZaraWith beaded embellishments
These athletic sandals have front straps, an adhesive closure at the ankle, a slogan detail, and beaded uppers. Zara ($59.90).
© ShopbopContrasting stitching
The Freida sandals by 3.1 Phillip Lim in cognac have platforms, double buckles, white stitching, and black rubber soles. Shopbop ($416.50).
With Velcro straps, chunky soles, or trekking-ready, both high and low-end dad sandals are a great talking piece!
