Birkenstocks are This Summer's Biggest Footwear Trend

This season, Birkenstock sandals are back with a vengeance! They are the leader of this season's ugly sandal trend, although whether or not they're really "ugly" or not is, of course, in the eye of the wearer.

Birkenstocks have been around since the 60s and every few years they seem to come in and out of style. Typically Birkenstock shoes and sandals cost anywhere from $50-$200, which can be pricey for a sandal you may only wear this summer.

Here's a tip if you do splurge on a pair: Birkenstocks last FOREVER. I have a pair that I hasn't left my shoe closet since 1999, but they still look brand new!

If you are looking for the style of Birkenstocks without the price, we found some suggestions that will help you achieve the Birkenstock look for less.

Sam & Libby Ashland Studded Sandal

Unfortunately the Sam & Libby Ashland Studded Sandal ($29.99) is not available for purchase online, but if you head to your local Target you should be able to find it there. This sandal is available in both black and silver (which would align with two of the year's biggest footwear trends: ugly sandals and metallic footwear). What makes this sandal unique is obviously the stud detail, which I think makes these sandals quite a bit more stylish and visually interesting.

Sage Foot Sandal

While Birkenstocks themselves are popular, white Birkenstocks seem to be doubly popular this season.  This Sage Foot Sandal costs just $19.99 at Payless, and it is available in a few different colors if you are not interested in white.

Thong Footbed Sandals

While Birkenstock doesn't create a style identical to this Thong Footbed Sandal ($34.99 at Kohl's), the padded footbed and overall style is very comparable, and for just $34.99 it might be worth deviating from the original style.

Bongo Raven Black Suede Strapped Sandal

I always thought the single-strapped Birkenstock sandal was the more casual version of the more typical double strapped sandal. I actually think this look will be more enduring once Birkenstocks inevitably fade back out of style again. You can find the Bongo Raven Black Suede Strapped Sandal at Sears in black and cognac for $24.99 (though they frequently go on sale).

Betula Licensed by Birkenstock Ira BF

Want to get as close as possible to a pair of Birkenstocks without actually paying for a pair of Birkenstocks? Look for the Betula Licensed by Birkenstock line (there is a great selection at 6pm.com), where you will find the Birkenstock footbed on Betula's very similar sandals... but for a fraction of the price!

This particular pair of Betula Licensed by Birkenstock Ira BF sandals are available in multiple colors and cost just $49.99 at 6pm.com.

6pm.com also carries traditional Birkenstock sandals for less as well. I spotted a few styles for kids that were on sale for less than $50.

If you are looking for a sandal that looks like a Birkenstock, but costs less and has a little bit of color, be sure to check out the Danbury Turquoise Thong Sandal at Kmart. At just $12.99, it's budget-friendly and super cute!

The Madden Girl Brando ($49.95 at Zappos) is the closest sandal to the original Birkenstock we featured, and the price is just right! The dual band straps are adjustable so they will fit nearly any foot size.

If you are not ready to commit to a white sandal, this style is also available in black, gold, and leopard print.

Madden Girl is the more budget-friendly line from Steve Madden, hence the lower price tag.

I am positive both Steve Madden and Steven by Steve Madden have a similar style at a higher price point.