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Once upon a time, I roamed the streets of New York City in 6-inch, toe-pinching heels as if it were nothing. Now, the very idea of such makes me cringe. Just because I’ve traded in my favorite strappy black stilettos for more comfortable silhouettes doesn’t mean I’ve forgone fashion, though. In part, I have Birdies to thank for that. Ever since getting a pair of the brand’s beloved Starling flats in 2020—and seeing just how fantastic they are for long stretches on your feet—I’ve been a fan of the brand. As much as I’ve enjoyed styling my Birdies flats and sneakers in fall, winter, and spring, though, I’d always hoped the brand would debut warm-weather silhouettes. And now, just in time for spring and summer, they have.
Enter: the Birdies Sun Drenched Collection. Spanning six styles, the collection prioritizes bright pops of color, natural textiles (like raffia), and chic silhouettes that can easily be dressed up or down. As beautiful as the collection is, London-based celebrity podiatrist Marion Yau (aka Miss Foot Fixer) says that the brand’s highly-cushioned, foot-friendly design is what really stands out.
Why Birdies are so good for your feet
“Birdies are made of seven layers of high density foam, memory foam, and premium cushioning—this assists in providing shock absorption that reduces the powerful impact that the foot experiences when walking, which can result in injury and foot pain,” she explains. “With the memory form, the shoe conforms to the foot, making it more comfortable to wear.”
In addition to the cushioning, Yao applauds the arch support seen in five of the six styles showcased in the Sun Drenched collection (one of the styles, The Phoebe, is currently sold out—just an FYI). “[Designated arch support] prevents the arch from collapsing,” she explains. But Birdies doesn’t stop there—they’ve also lined all six of the Sun Drenched styles with heel cookies (aka, heel pads), which cushion the heel.
Another highlight Yao has marked in her book? All of the new Birdies styles have a leather lining, which she says enhances comfort and has a cooling effect, which can help prevent and reduce sweating.
Needless to say, if you’ve been searching for your new go-to spring and summer shoes, the Birdies Sun Drenched collection is worth perusing. In the meantime, keep reading for additional thoughts on my three favorite styles from the launch.
The Kiwi — $130.00
Sold in four colors, this flat sandal is simple and streamlined with a touch of retro flair, which makes it work well for a variety of situations, ranging from workwear to more casual ‘fits, including beachwear (which is why Birdies and Summersalt joined forces to create an edit showcasing how to style the shoes with swimwear and coverups). The only downside is that it’s the only style of the Sun Drenched collection that doesn’t have arch support. That said, Yao applauds the adjustable strap, which she says makes the sandal a universal silhouette for narrow and wide feet alike.
Two notes: First, they run small, so if you’re in between sizes, be sure to size up half a size. Second, these shoes are richly pigmented and dye can transfer, so be careful about wearing them (or packing them) with light-colored clothing.
Sizes available: 5-12
Colors: 4
The Goldfinch — $140.00
Pointed-toe silhouettes are having a major moment in 2023 and these flats—particularly in the raffia iterations—are the perfect summery take on the trend. And Yao agrees!
“Although raffia is not waterproof, one of its most desirable characteristics is that it is both water-resistant and breathable, making it very suitable [in summer shoes],” she explains.
While we favor the natural allure of the raffia Goldfinch silhouette the most, the flats are also sold in leather and suede options.
Just keep in mind: These flats run a smidge small, so you’ll want to go up half a size if you have wide feet or are in between sizes. (That said, I’m normally a 10 or 10.5, and found that while the 10.5 fits my toes the best, I’ll definitely be adding a heel guard for a slip-proof fit.)
Sizes available: 5-12
Colors: 2
The Starling — $130.00
The Starling is a Birdies favorite (and it’s one of mine—and Meghan Markle’s too!). It’s now available in in a raffia material, which reminds us of lounging on fancy lawn furniture on 4th of July. The Starling also comes in a basketweave material, which feels like something we’d wear on repeat in our cozy summer house in Maine. Read up more about Starling flats here.
Sizes available: 5-12
Colors (in the new collection): 6
The Blackbird — $131.00
The main difference between The Starling and Blackbird is that the Blackbird has a slight pointed toe, versus the Starling, which is rounded. Both have a loafer-like look and feel, and both have that same cushioning Birdies is known for. Snag two new colors in the raffia material in this collection.
Sizes available: 5-12
Colors (in the new collection): 2
The Swan — $140.00
The Swan adds a bit of fancy to your ensemble, with its more dramatic pointed toe and braided strap. Grab it in the three new Sun Drenched colors.
Sizes available: 5-12
Colors (in the new collection): 3
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