Sure, some have deemed the rise of sporty sandals “the ugly shoe trend,” but you can still look cool while staying comfortable this spring and summer. How do I know? Let me tell you an embarrassing story. I wore a uniform in high school. It was a lovely plaid kilt with a button down oxford. Nothing new and exciting there. Our shoes, however, were not so run of the mill: Birkenstock clogs and knee-length socks. So yeah, I know a little something about unattractive footwear.
Before you shed a tear for my tragic teen wardrobe, keep in mind that it was an all-girls school, so the teen boys rarely saw me rocking this fashion-forward look. Also, we were fully aware of how ugly our shoes were, but gosh darn it if those weren’t the comfiest things I’ve ever worn in a public setting.
Luckily for me and the ladies who’ve attended St. Cecilia Academy, the sporty sandal has made a comeback. Luckily for the world, most of these sandals look nothing like the mess of a shoe I wore in high school. They’ve been all over runways this year and have adopted a much more feminine look. From designers who have created their own version of the Birkenstock, to shops featuring an entirely new take on the familiar sandal, we’ve rounded up a few locals stores where you can find these cool, comfy kicks.
So go ahead, indulge your inner Sporty Spice and pick up a pair at these Dallas shops. Just don’t wear knee-length socks.