If you make one smart shoe investment this season, make it these clogs…
I’ll be honest, I wasn’t planning on getting sucked into the Birkenstock hype. When Margot Robbie swapped her Barbie heels for clogs in the film, I thoroughly enjoyed the symbolism but didn’t think it would affect my own shoe choices. Fast forward a few months, and suddenly everyone from Kendall Jenner to Kaia Gerber seemed to be living in them, and I started to notice them on actual streets too. Some looked great, others less so, but one thing was clear: Birkenstocks weren’t going anywhere.
I’d seen plenty of the classic sandals, but it was the Tokio II suede clogs that started to play on my mind more and more. They looked a bit sturdier, a bit more autumn-ready, and I was desperately in need of something comfy to wear to the office that wasn’t trainers (I do work in a casual office, I’ll add for context).
Finally, I caved—and just in time for autumn. The moment I put them on, I understood why people were hooked. The suede feels soft straight away, and the strap at the back makes them easy to walk in without having to scrunch my toes up to keep them on. Also, the footbed is shaped to support your feet rather than leaving them tired by the end of the day. I’ll give it to her, Barbie certainly had it right when it came to comfy footwear.
Birkenstock Tokio II Suede Clogs
The original suede clogs with an adjustable buckle fastening strap at the heel
I also realised that styling them was easier than I expected. They work perfectly with straight-leg jeans and wide trousers—both of which I wear on repeat. I’ve definitely seen them worn badly (loud socks and slouchy jeans don’t do them any favours, I think), but when you keep the rest of your outfit simple and ‘Scandi-inspired’, they just slot in.
The taupe shade helps too, since it goes with almost everything and looks even better when the suede gets a bit lived-in. However, if you’re after a khaki, grey, black or a brighter shade, you can pick them up from Birkenstock’s own website.
So yes, I broke my promise not to buy into the viral clog moment, but I’m glad I did. These Birkenstock Tokio clogs have turned into the pair I keep by the door and wear almost every day, and I’m not sure I want to take them off anytime soon. Also, at £150, I definitely want to get my wear out of them.
Of course, if £150 is a stretch, there are other clog options on offer to give you a Barbie look for a little less. Next’s Neutral Leather Slingback Footbed Clogs come in two neutral shades for autumn and are praised for being comfy and affordable at £42.
