Ask Chris Black: What’s the New Taupe Birkenstock Clog?

Chris Black, a style columnist for the Strategist since 2019 and co-host of ‘How Long Gone,’ offers advice on spring fashion dilemmas. This installment of his monthly column addresses questions about alternatives to the popular taupe Birkenstock clogs, recommendations for spring/early summer jackets, and the enduring relevance of polo shirts. Regarding clogs, Black acknowledges the ubiquitous nature of the Birkenstock Boston in taupe suede. He expresses a general disinterest in slides, clogs, or mules due to living in New York City and walking extensively, and a particular dislike for adult Crocs. However, he recognizes the utility of easy-to-put-on footwear in certain contexts. His recommendations for clogs and similar styles include Oofos Men’s Recovery Clogs, praised for their comfort, unassuming appearance, ease of cleaning, and reasonable price point, presenting them as a less common alternative to Birkenstocks or Crocs. He also suggests the Birkenstock Zürich Suede Sandals as a cooler, lesser-known option that bridges the gap between the Boston and Arizona models. For a more athletic slide, the Salomon RX Slide 3.0 is recommended, noting its breathability and cork sole. Finally, for a more elevated and street-appropriate option, Our Legacy Black Cigarr Slippers are highlighted for their supple black leather, proper rubber sole, and distinctive square toe. The discussion then shifts to spring and early summer jackets. Black emphasizes that spring is an ideal season for lightweight, rain-repellent, or slightly cropped outerwear. His top picks include the Sunspel Showerproof Cotton Mac in “dark stone,” which he describes as a perfect spring weight and versatile for layering. The mfpen Mail Jacket in Black Vintage Stripe is noted for its deadstock Italian wool blend, subtle tonal stripe, and slightly boxy fit. The James Coward Rambler Coat, made from brown wool flannel, is praised for its fit, earthy color, and raglan sleeves. For a modern take on a classic, the Noah Nylon Mechanics Jacket, crafted from deep-navy water-repellent nylon with a cotton flannel lining, is suggested. The timeless Barbour Beaufort Waxed Jacket is presented as the “gold standard” for spring, suitable for various settings and offering practical features like multiple pockets. Finally, the column tackles the question of polo shirts. Black firmly defends polo shirts as a cornerstone of a warm-weather wardrobe, placing them alongside T-shirts and oxford shirts in the “Shirt Hall of Fame.” He advises against overly casual or synthetic options. His recommendations include the ERL Cotton Polo Shirt for its unique washed blue shade, suggesting it offers a naturally faded look. The Lady White Co. Summer Wool Polo in black is recommended for its relaxed fit, simple design, and breathable Japanese-knit wool jersey, suitable even for dressing up under a blazer. The Uniqlo DRY Pique Polo Shirt is highlighted as a solid, wearable option with personality, especially in collaboration with designer Jonathan Anderson. The Sid Mashburn Court Polo is noted for its slim fit, appropriate length, subtle embroidered logo, and wide range of colors. Lastly, the Lacoste Men’s Classic Fit Original L.12.12 Polo, designed by René Lacoste in 1933, is included as the original, with a note to size up due to potentially unconventional fits. #MensApparel #MensShoes #SpringFashion #StyleRecommendations #BirkenstockAlternatives #PoloShirts #SpringJackets #MensApparel #MensShoes #SpringFashion #StyleRecommendations #BirkenstockAlternatives #PoloShirts #SpringJackets