You’ve probably heard that a quality winter hat is the key to staying warm in the colder seasons. But trust us, friends, that wrapping yourself up in a comfy scarf is just as important when it comes to staying toasty. Even better if the scarf is warm and looks super classy to boot. That’s why the faux fur look is so ideal. A faux fur scarf is hands down the chicest way to bundle in the chilly months, and you’ll be ready to go from midday coffee date to evening soirée in a snap. Here are 12 faux fur scarves we can’t wait to don this winter.
Quiet luxury had a beautiful run in 2023, but the mob wife aesthetic has entered the style group chat and is telling everyone their days of embracing side character energy is over. When I think of this trend, I can picture Elvira Hancock from Scarface and Carmela Soprano from The Sopranos in all of their glamorous glory. Also, while she may not have been a mob wife exactly, we can't forget Fran Drescher's style in The Nanny— her gaudy and expressive style continues to have impactful influence.
While I'll never suggest your lifestyle has to mirror the mob wife aesthetic, I do have a few tricks up my sleeve that'll help you effortlessly embody it.
Mob Wife Aesthetic — Coats
Alice + Olivia Jarrett Vegan Leather Maxi Coat
The first unofficial rule of this trend is to make sure your winter coats are top tier. You'll want to go for a classic silhouette — similar to this vegan leather maxi coat — that makes a subtle statement. I've found that hunter green coats serve as a great neutral for just about anything in your closet so you can't go wrong with this!
Nasty Gal Raw Denim Oversized Trench Coat
For something that's the perfect mix of casual and edgy, this denim oversized trench coat will get the job done. It's a gentle nod to the mob wife aesthetic that's sure to elevate your outfits.
Nasty Gal Premium Bonded Faux Leather Borg Maxi Aviator Jacket
Should you want something that feels more casual without skimping on style, this maxi aviator jacket is an option you'll love wearing.
Mob Wife Aesthetic — Blazers
Michael Michael Kors Metallic Tweed Jacket
One of the best parts about the mob wife aesthetic are the cute blazers you get to wear. This metallic tweed jacket can be worn with a pair of tailored trousers or straight leg jeans if you're headed to brunch during the day.
ALESSANDRA RICH Zebra-Printed Cotton Blazer
Make a statement with this zebra print blazer! You may even stop traffic because it commands attention.
Alexia Admor Olya Notch Lapel Belted Blazer
Ah, here's another gorgeous green number that lets people know that you're standing on business despite how chic you may look.
Mob Wife Aesthetic — Blouses
Lulu's Black Chiffon Top
Thanks to the mob wives aesthetic, this is the year your closet will have a few more blouses added to it.
Banana Republic Crinkle Volume-Sleeve Blouse
If the thought of wearing chiffon makes you shudder, you can wear this volume-sleeve blouse.
Alice + Olivia Finely Open Back Button Blouse
I'm a huge fan of blouses that have the "business in the front, party in the back" detail like Alice + Olivia's design.
Mob Wife Aesthetic — Skirts
H&M Knit A-line Mini Skirt
Keep it cute and chic with this knit A-line mini skirt.
Vince Leather Straight Skirt (Hickory)
Or, bring the drama with a midi leather skirt that has the mob wife aesthetic written all over it.
Meshki Mura Pleated Mini Skirt (Lemon)
For a playful look, pair this pleated mini skirt with a cute blazer or knit sweater.
Mob Wife Aesthetic — Dresses
Hutch Asymmetrical Lace Mix Slip Dress
This lace slip dress has enough sex appeal for the both of us!
Reformation Felda Dress (Leo)
Whether you're dining at the most popular Italian restaurant in town or heading straight to a blues club, this dress falls in line with the mob wife aesthetic.
Reformation Irisa Dress (Grand Dame)
I can see it now — you wearing this dress with a cute cardigandraped over your shoulders.
Mob Wife Aesthetic — Tights
Calzedonia Tulle 40 Dernier Lace Ruffle Thigh Highs
I highly recommend that you consider pairing these tights with the above Reformation Irisa dress!
Spanx Plush Tummy Shaping Tights
However, you can a touch of mystery to your mob wife aesthetic by wearing tights that aren't sheer.
Wolford Josey Tights
Your expressive outfit won't be complete without these leopard print tights from Wolford!
Merjuri Easy Huggie Hoops
If you have multiple ear piercings, Merjuri's gold hoops are a quaint accessory that's still on par with this fun trend.
Kendra Scott Mikki Pave Huggie Earrings in Gold
Another option is to wear a pair of small hoop earrings that are encrusted with gems.
Mob Wife Aesthetic — Bracelets
Baublebar Melissa Cuff Bracelet
Let your wrist do the talking with Baublebar's gold cuff bracelet.
Ross-Simons 18kt Gold Over Sterling Jewelry Set: Three Bolo Bracelets
Break out this 18kt gold bracelet set for during date night.
Jessica Simpson Brykia Boot (Malbec)
If you have a Merlot-colored coat at home, wear it with this pointed-toe boot.
Gianni Bini x Nastia Liukin Parker Crocodile Embossed Leather Tall Boots
Crocodile embossed boots are the thing to wear if you still want to turn heads in a toned down outfit.
Mob Wife Aesthetic — Heels
Christian Louboutin So Kate Patent Pointed-Toe Red Sole Pump
The mob wives aesthetic is practically begging for you to have at least one pair of significant black pumps.
Public Desire Legacy Gold Croc Barely There Pointed Toe Stiletto Heels
However, glamour is on the other line and it wants you to throw caution to the wind by wearing gold heels.
Sam Edelman Hazel Pointed Toe Pump (Brown Brahma)
If the rest of your outfit is starting to feel like quiet luxury, slip into these brown and cream patterned pumps to wake it up.
How do you feel about the mob wife aesthetic?
Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Lead image via HBO
This post has been updated.
I love looking at Zillow listings as much as the best of us, but absolutely nobody loves daydreaming about all the outrageously beautiful (and costly) houses for sale more than my mother-in-law. She finds the most gorgeous gems across the country, saving them all for when she inevitably wins the lottery (if anyone would, it's her TBH) and can take her pick of the housing litter. Instead of gatekeeping these jaw-dropping homes, I had her send them my way so I can share them with you! So without further ado, here are 15 of most insanely stunning — and insanely expensive — Zillow houses for sale right now.
Beach Houses
Image via Zillow
East Hampton Beach Cottage
Cost: $44,500,000
The Hamptons are known for their clean, chic shingle architectural style, and this "cottage" is no exception to that. And while I absolutely adore the inside of this home, it's the grounds that really get me at the end of the day. Think about all the beautiful backyard dinner parties you could throw!
Image via Zillow
Destin Beach House Destination
Cost: $4,100,000
Who needs a time share in Destin when you could own all this?! This airy, beautiful house takes coastal home style to the next level. I love the sandy, earthy tones paired with the light blues and open space. And for less than 10% of the Bridgehampton beauty above, this is basically a steal, right? 😉
Image via Zillow
Marvelous Marco Island Getaway
Cost: $5,450,000
I vacation on Marco every year with my in-laws, but I can PROMISE you our one-bedroom timeshare (that I love) isn't anywhere near this stunning super home. Swipe through photos to see how gorgeously staged this multi-million dollar home is — I promise it won't disappoint!
Image via Zillow
Laguna Beach Beauty
Cost: $21,500,000
Obviously Laguna Beach is known for so much more than the hit MTV show, but I can't untangle the two. So in my mind, this is the home Lauren Conrad's parents worked on in Season 1 Episode 1 — a $20+ million dollar stunner that I would later stare at on Zillow. It's not true, but wouldn't it be fun?
Image via Zillow
California Dream House
Cost: $55,000,000
Not only is this a dream house because of how it looks, but also because I could only afford this in my literal wildest dreams. Unless someone decides to discover me on the New York streets for the funny, talented gal my parents think I am, this is strictly a mood board manifestation moment. (But, what if?!)
Image via Zillow
At Home In The Hamptons
Cost: $79,995,000
Oh, how I could wax poetic about this $80 million Bridgehampton beauty. Shall I compare thee to a summer's day? Ya know...the one I would love to have in this very house? Just lounging, living luxuriously? That imaginary inheritance I daydream about could reaaaaaally come in handy right about now.
Image via Zillow
Fantastic Florida Beach Cottage
Cost: $9,950,000
In case you can't tell, none of these homes are "cottages" outside of their aesthetic. While this six bedroom, four bathroom may look humbler than the rest, the cost should indicate what we're working with here. Each room is so perfectly curated, and to have all this right in the heart of Naples is absolutely everything. I could see myself sitting by that fire for SURE.
Condos & Townhouses
Image via Zillow
Gorgeous Georgetown Condo
Cost: $5,495,000
DC is more than just Capitol Hill, and this Georgetown Condo proves it! The natural light, the natural wood accents, and the big, airy rooms make this home a welcomed reprieve in on of the busier U.S. cities. And while you're getting a lot in a small package (three bedrooms for $5+ million...😭), you're really paying for the neighborhood. Georgetown really is full of beautiful townhouses, great restaurants and bars, and overall good vibes.
Image via Zillow
Upper East Side Excellence
Cost: $65,000,000
Hello, Upper East Siders...Zillow Girl here! All jokes aside, this $65 million townhouse is giving all the old money luxe that Chuck Bass and Blair Waldorf would settle into quite nicely. The molding, the wraparound staircases, and the sheer size alone are something else, but the biggest surprise here? TEN BATHROOMS. TEN!!!!!!
Image via Zillow
Totally Airy Brooklyn Townhouse
Cost: $6,950,000
Good new, girls! This totally killer townhouse had a $300,000 price cut last month, bringing it to...just under $7 million! While I try to fix my eye twitch after writing that, scroll through to see the gorgeousness that is this literal mid-century modern four-story home. It's like a little (big) oasis in the middle of the big city!
Image via Zillow
Beautiful Turn-Of-The-Century Brooklyn Townhouse
Cost: $6,995,000
I've said it once and I'll say it again: Carroll Gardens in my dream neighborhood. It's got all the Brooklyn charm with its brilliant brownstones, lively dining scene, and tree-lined streets. Plus, it's so incredibly close to Prospect Park for all your summer strolls with the kids or the dogs or yourself or whomever! And while I could go on and on about the location, the townhouse itself is kitschy with it's mix of classic and modern details.
Mountain And Lake Houses
Image via Zillow
Charming Wyoming Ranch House
Cost: $8,199,000
It feels a little silly to call a nearly $10 million home "charming," but here we are. This modern ranch-style mountain house looks unassuming from the outside. And the four-bedroom inside is really nice, too, don't get me wrong. But what really makes this worth it, if I had to guess? The freaking VIEW. Can you imagine sipping your coffee and staring off into that horizon every morning? Yes, please. I would like one of these.
Image via Zillow
Cozy North Carolina Castle
Cost: $7,500,000
Ah yes, nothing cozier than a literal castle-sized house in Appalachia. In all seriousness, the dark wood accents give you that almost cabin-esque feel that the mountain range so obviously calls for. With 10 bedrooms, this is the perfect retreat for your family get-togethers! You can enjoy each other's company across the estate, or you could...find a little hiding spot and nobody would know the wiser. 😉
Image via Zillow
Sante Fe Getaway
Cost: $3,375,000
The most affordable of the bunch, this single-story Sante Fe residence is a dream-come-true! You've got lake views, trails, and even a golf course if that's your thing! My personal favorite part of this lovely little home, however, is the wine cellar. Can you imagine being like, "Yeah, just go grab a bottle from the wine cellar"?! Like I said, dream-come-freaking-true!
Image via Zillow
Lovely Michigan Lake House
Cost: $3,649,000
The windows alone are enough to make this house the dreamiest escape, let alone the private and super exclusive access to Lake Michigan. This home may only have three bedrooms and four bathrooms, but each room feels intentional, spacious, and utterly luxurious. I'd definitely dip my toes in that water!
Looking for more home inspo? Sign up for our weekly email newsletter, and be sure to check out our storefront!
Header image via Zillow
50 Gorgeous Pieces Of Silver Jewelry That'll Make All Your Valentine's Day Outfits Shine
Jan 12, 2024
You may be bundled up in every sweater and coat you can get your hands on this season, but that doesn't mean your winter style can't be fun. IMO, this is the perfect time to go haywire with metallics by rocking all the best metallic styles you can stand. Plus, you'll want to wear something shiny to pair with your Valentine's Day outfit this year!
Whether you're you're rocking silver heels, or looking to start small with some silver jewelry, this trend is definitely one to get into. Here are 45 pieces of silver jewelry you can get right now!
Silver Necklaces
Anthropologie Sparkling Tennis Necklace
This sparkling tennis necklace proves that silver jewelry is far from basic.
Kendra Scott Elisa Pendant Necklace
All you need is a simple knit sweater and a pair of bootcut jeans to complement this silver pendant necklace.
Anthropologie Double Layer Herringbone Necklace
Herringbone necklaces are a classic staple that works with all holiday outfits.
Mejuri 5mm Curb Chain Necklace
This necklace from Mejuri is perfect for layering, but it's bold enough to make a statement on its own.
Dazzling Rock Collection 10mm Round White Freshwater Pearl & Diamond Infinity Pendant
The unique crossing design atop the pearl in this necklace pendant grants it a truly unmatched charm. It's intricate and simple all at the same time, allowing for easy pairing with any outfit or other pieces of silver jewelry.
Brilliant Earth Zodiac Engravable Tag Pendant
Looking for something similar, but just different enough from the round zodiac pendant? Look no further than this adorable zodiac tag necklace.
Anthropologie Book Locket Necklace
Book lovers need thoughtful gifts they can appreciate — like this book locket necklace.
Gorjana Compass Coin Necklace
Let this Gorjana Compass Coin Necklace guide you to your best look yet.
Brilliant Earth Mountain Range Diamond Pendant
Love the great outdoors? Show off your natural passions in style with this pendant.
Silver Earrings
Baublebar Reagan Earrings
Take a break from crystal drop earrings and sport Baublebar's embellished version instead. Trust me — you'll love the effect statement silver jewelry has on your confidence.
Mejuri Pressed Flower Two-Tone Large Stud Earrings
Wearing silver doesn't mean you can't mix metals. These two-toned earrings let you play around with your accompanying accessories!
Alexis Bittar Crumpled Silver Small Post Earrings
But, there's also power found in wearing small silver post earrings.
SHASHI Estelle Earrings
Just when you thought silver jewelry couldn't get bolder, these crystal drop earrings showed up on the scene.
Brilliant Earth Cultured Pearl Threader Earrings
Threader earrings give all the goodness of a drop earring with all the contemporary chicness.
Jenny Bird Florence Earrings
Hoop earrings are the easiest way to add an extra dose of 'oomph' to your OOTD. Besides, the polished silver will give your ears a bit of shine as you go to and from your intended destinations.
Mejuri Charlotte Bold Huggies
If you want huggies that are a little more bold, well...it's literally in the name!
Baublebar Chiara Pavé Hoop Earrings
Go all out with these silver tone earrings. Featuring glass stones, they're the perfect accessory for that in-office holiday party you've been invited to.
Sif Jakobs Earrings Elisse Lungo Cinque
Elevate your silver jewelry stash by buying this stunning pair of drop earrings. They're exude opulence and will be the star of any holiday party you attend.
Madewell Puffy Heart Statement Earrings
Throw these silver heart earrings on when you're running errands. They'll elevate your winter cozy style in less than 30 seconds.
Sif Jakobs Earrings Livigno
Not a hoops girl? These circular Sif Jakobs earrings can blend in or standout, depending on how they're styled, so you get a similar effect.
MEJURI Puffy Charlotte Hoops
These mini sterling silver hoops may be on the smaller side, but they still make a bold statement.
Silver Rings
David Yurman Cable Collectibles Stack Ring
Stack your silver jewelry on your fingers starting with David Yurman's collectibles ring.
Local Eclectic Moonstone Decco Ring
If some guy said your aura's moonstone just 'cause he was high, then this is the ring for you! 😉
Dazzling Rock Collection 0.05 Carat Round White Diamond Flower Marquise Illusion Set Ring
Fall in love with this ring's unique diamond setting that can be worn for formal occasions and in your everyday. The floral-inspired design will adorn your finger with an alluring aura!
Tory Burch Miller Stud Ring
Tory Burch's brand has become synoynmous with effortless style that has a unique twist.
Gorjana Parker Link Ring
Loving the chain look? The Parker Link Ring can really tie it all together for you!
Gucci Sterling Silver Trademark Heart Ring
If this piece of sterling silver jewelry makes you sing, "Gucci this. Gucci that," I won't judge you.
Mejuri Croissant Dome Ring
Croissants are always a good option — even if you can't exactly eat this one. 😗
BEN ONI Cody Cuban Link Ring
This gender-neutral ring works for anyone. It's sleek and constructed into a stackable ring that features Cuban links. There's nothing sexier than that.
Ippolita Classico Hammered Statement Dome Ring
Don't want anything flashy on your finger? Rock this hammered dome ring.
Monica Vinader Riva Diamond Hoop Ring
Monica Vinader has cracked the silver jewelry code by creating a design that's simple and elegant.
Dazzlingrock 0.05 Carat Round Ring
This ring comes complete with a gorgeous floral design and set of diamonds that makes it the most ideal choice for occasions like Valentine's Day. It's expertly crafted and will pair well with the other silver jewelry you plan to wear.
Silver Bracelets
Kendra Scott Addison Stretch Bracelet
If you're not already thinking about it, pair this bracelet with Kendra Scott's Elisa pendant necklace!
Local Eclectic Chunky Stainless Steel Curb Chain Bracelet
If you wanna go bolder than the Sif Jakobs bracelet, then this is a great choice to stand out.
Gorjana Parker Link Bracelet
Looking for a less chunky link bracelet? And one that can match your Parker Ring, too? We got you. 😇
Anthropologie Assorted Chain Bracelets
The girlies need options...it's me. I definitely need options, so I'm eyeing this silver assorted chain bracelet set.
MEJURI Puffy Charlotte Cuff Bracelet
Available in four sizes, MEJURI's silver cuff bracelet is has a memorable design that's easy to wear.
Silver Watches
BREDA Virgil Metal Watch
If it's time to replace your wristwatch, step your game up with this silver metal watch.
VANNA Claire Sandstone & Jade Watch
Having small wrists doesn't have to be a disadvantage. You can easily rock this dainty silver watch without worrying about it slipping down your wrist.
Versus Versace Colonne 45MM Two Tone Stainless Steel Bracelet Watch
Why buy a regular watch when you can a two-tone one that doubles as a bracelet? It's a piece of silver jewelry that works smarter, not harder.
FOSSIL Stella Three-Hand Date Stainless Steel Watch
FOSSIL knows how to create lovely designs that stand the test of time — pun intended.
Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Lead image via Mejuri.
This post has been updated.
Sequels that are just as good, if not better, than the original movie are one in a million, but if you ask me, Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement definitely tops the list. Anne Hathaway brings a whole new spunk and adultified sass to the freshly 21-year-old Mia Thermopolis, and Julie Andrews shines as Queen Clarisse! (Both on the karaoke stage and off ;)). Not to mention the movie also gave us the blueprint for contemporary enemies to lovers: Nicholas and Mia!
While Bridgerton producer Shonda Rhimes wasn't involved with the first movie, she was the writer for the second — and TBH, that's definitely a reason it's so good!
Image via Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images
"I thought [Princess Diaries 2] would be a really fun thing to do and it turned out to be great," she tells Variety. "I always think it's funny now because I'm working with Julie Andrews now on Bridgerton, but I also spent time writing her as a queen in that movie, and so it was kind of great to get to work with her both times. It's also sort of come full circle in a weird way."
Shonda Rhimes goes on to explain one cut scene she remembers really fondly — and how Andrews' expert performance made it even more heartbreaking to cut. "That was pretty much one of my favorite scenes," she says. "It was this moment where Julie Andrews [has] had her heart broken, and some staff comes in and they start to ask her a question and she screams, 'Do I never get a moment to myself?!' and it was such an amazing moment the way she played it, and the elegance with which she did it. It's really about the pain of being a queen."
"She did it so well," Rhimes continues. "But in general, honestly, she's the nicest person you will ever meet and she was so nice to me, I was nervous to meet her, I was shaking, [but she's] so lovely."
After Julie Andrews sent the sweetest graduation gift to a fan, I'm not surprised to hear how incredible she is. I still have my fingers crossed that we'll see Julie Andrews in The Princess Diaries 3 — and that Shonda Rhimes will return as screenwriter.
What's your favorite scene from the Princess Diaries movies? The mattress surfing scene in Princess Diaries 2 is definitely one of the best movie moments of all time. If you're feeling nostalgic, check out 6 Nostalgic Movies That Feel Like Summer Vacation!
Lead image via Walt Disney Pictures/Buena Vista
‘Tis the season to finally ditch our boots for something on the lighter side: sandals! Sandals season is the best season because it means putting the final touches on our outfits isn’t a total pain (ahem, looking at you, shoelaces and straps).
Warmer weather undoubtedly means more outside time, but we don’t necessarily want to be trodding around in heavy, sweaty walking shoes. That’s where walking sandals come in!
Sandalsneed to be comfy if we’re gonna be walking around in them. Our criteria for the perfect pair of walking sandals includes being able to withstand hours (and miles) of wear without any rubbing, sliding, or blistering. Of course, they need to be cute, too. Style is very hard to sacrifice when it comes to walking sandals, so we definitely prefer ours to be compatible with a variety of different outfits – from casual to more dressed-up.
The B+C team has tried and tested so many types of walking sandals over the years, and these 5 pairs came out on top for their ability to check the boxes for comfort, practicality, and style! Scroll on for thorough reviews of our go-to walking sandals.Teva Women's Midform Universal Sandals
Comfort: 5/5
For B+C Head of Content, Ali, the Tevas Midform walking sandals are peak comfort. They boast a super soft foam footbed that has heel cupping and elevation around the arches for additional support.
“I’ve worn my Tevas to the ground,” she says. “The inch height boost is appreciated as someone who’s 5-feet 2-inches and they’re incredibly sturdy and cushiony.”
Practicality: 5/5
Ali can walk miles on miles in these easy walking sandals.
“They’ve become my quintessential everyday casual shoe for running L.A. errands like walking my dog, heading to the farmer’s market, and grabbing coffee.”
Although they’re super dependable, Ali feels like the several years of “constant use” from her Teva Midform walking sandals have lost some of their arch support.
Style: 5/5
The Teva Midform sandals are pretty no-frills, but they’re still stylish for today’s age. The 1 ¼-inch height falls somewhere in between flats and platforms, making a fairly casual statement. The thick, adjustable velcro straps that wrap around the toes and low ankle are secure and match with pretty much anything.
They also come in a variety of colorways to suit your own personal style, though the all-black pick is likely the most versatile of them all.
One of the best parts about these walking sandals is their approachable pricing. This black pair is just $65.
Chacos Z Sandals
Comfort: 4/5
The classic Chacos Z Sandals – once you actually break them in – are extremely comfortable, since the footbed tends to meld against the shape of your foot.
To B+C Creative Assistant, Meredith (that’s me!), the break-in period is crucial for Chacos, but it’s not a real pain. Once she wore hers just two times, they softened up and fit smoothly.
Practicality: 4/5
Meredith thinks these Chaco walking sandals are practical for a number of reasons: they work on dry land and in the water, they’re durable to stand up to off-road terrain, and they don’t slip a single bit.
“They work so well as water shoes,” Meredith says. “I’ll wear them on long lake days and I don’t ever have to take them off, even when I’m out of the water.”
The Chacos Z Sandals flaunt a thick, durable rubber sole with their signature ChacoGrip™ layer on the bottom that has a “good amount” of tread, according to Meredith.
The adjustable straps that swarm the big toe, top of the foot, and ankle are amazing at keeping her feet in place with every step.
“I definitely recommend getting your Chacos fitted by an expert and/or tinkering around with the perfect fit yourself,” she says. “It can be hard to find it, but once you have it, you won’t have to worry about adjusting the straps again.”
Although they can withstand weathering pretty well, they’re not all that great for all-day wear. Meredith has gauged over time (she’s had her Chacos for 6 years) that they’re “walkable for a day, but I wouldn’t hike in them.”
Style: 4/5
The Chacos Z sandals are ideal for someone who has more of a granola girl style. They flaunt more technical details (like the chunky sole and noticeable tread), so they’re obviously not as fashion-forward as the Doc Martens or Tevas of the world.
Still, these walking sandals come in a ton of different colors, plus you don’t have to snag the Z-style. Chacos sells a variety of shoe silhouettes with the same comfort levels!
Chaco sandals can be an investment (ranging from $75-$110), but they last a long time. Meredith hasn’t noticed any huge signs of wear over the six years she’s worn them!
OluKai ‘Aka Sandals
Comfort: 5/5
These walking sandals from OluKai changed everything Meredith thought she knew about flip flops. And well, they’re not even quite flip flops, either. They’re like flip flops, but elevated, really.
The ‘Aka silhouette boasts a carefully-crafted footbed that feels as durable as the Chacos sandals, which says a lot for such a lightweight shoe. On top of that, they have a very soft footbed that Meredith is obsessed with since it provides more support than your average slip-on sandal.
Practicality: 4/5
“For a pool day, these are absolutely practical,” Meredith says.
These walking sandals are crafted from a water-resistant material that doesn’t soak up water, but rather, repels it.
This aspect makes them an easy go-to for summer days spent outside.
As far as the actual walking, there’s not rubbing or chafing to be found. The easygoing straps keep the feet in place but don’t feel utterly tight or uncomfortable.
Style: 5/5
The style of these walking sandals is minimal, but adorable. They flaunt some super thin straps (still durable) that knot at the top. Plus, they are shoppable in a handful of other vibrant colors for only $70.
Birkenstock Arizona Sandals
Comfort: 3/5
Ahh, Birks. They’re so classic! Like Chacos, Meredith really had to break in her pair of Birkenstock Arizona sandals for literal weeks before they started to feel just right.
“The cork footbed is supposed to adapt to your step over time, though it takes a while,” according to Meredith.
On the other hand, the wide buckled straps are quite welcoming and have never rubbed her feet the wrong way. They cover a good amount of the foot, so you’re not left with skin sticking out or being pinched weirdly.
Practicality: 3/5
These walking sandals aren’t quite made to go the distance, according to Meredith.
“I'd rather have these on for a quick errand, rather than wandering around for hours at the farmer’s market,” she says. “Maybe I just haven’t broken them in enough yet, though.”
Their flat sole doesn’t have much tread, making it a challenge to navigate any surface that’s not an inside floor or pavement.
Style: 4/5
These Birkenstock walking sandals are the ultimate casual, cool girl shoe. They match with shorts, skirts, pants, and everything in between. They’ve come to have such a classic, unmistakable look, so the brand recognition also boosts their chicness.
These sandals come in a handful of different colors for $110.
Doc Marten Blaire Slide Sandals
Comfort: 3/5
Meredith has been rocking with these Doc Marten sandals since last summer, and she ranks their comfort a total of 3 out of 5. The straps are the main factor that takes away from their overall comfort, since they often rub and give her blisters in very specific places.
Each of the three straps is adjustable, and though she’s toyed with different levels of tightness, they just don’t fit Meredith’s feet right.
The cushy footbed gains a few points back for these walking sandals. Meredith does appreciate the platformed shape for short periods of wear, like getting groceries or stopping by the craft store.
Practicality: 2/5
Since their comfort level is close to intolerable for long periods of wear, Meredith can’t really endorse these walking sandals’ practicality.
“They’re super cute, but I just can’t have them on all day,” she says. “I wish they fit me better than they do.”
Style: 5/5
While the comfort and practicality categories are severely lacking, the cuteness factor of the Doc Marten Blaire Slide Sandals is undeniable.
As a Doc Marten boot enthusiast, Meredith was drawn to them for their easy-to-pair color palette and signature Doc Marten details, like the black leather and yellow stitching.
The Doc Marten Blaire Slide Sandals go for $100.
Subscribe to our shopping newsletter for more editor-approved wardrobe picks!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Images via brands.