Birkenstocks are back! I barely believe it, but I really start to see flat, bulky sandals all over the online stores, social media, blogs …
Celine spring 2013 bz Phobe Philo closeup
Here comes a short background of the whole trend. The german (to be more correct Frankfurt based) company Birkenstock started making its first sandal with orthopedic footbed in the middle 60ies. In line with the hippy spirit of the late 60ies and 70ies the shoes became a hit and the statement of a more environment as well as health conscious movement. They were neglected in the 80ies and returned with 90ies grunge. They were featured in Marc Jacobs frequently cited spring 1993 collection for Perry Ellis and worn by Kate Moss!
Kate Moss wearing Birkenstocks Arizona sandals photo@http://intothegloss.com
Their recent comeback started with Phoebe Philo’s furry take on the style for spring 2013. Shown with sleek minimalist pieces they somehow managed to stand out (….but still reminded me a little of the bigfoot or yeti….).
Celine spring 2013 by Phoebe Philo – Isn`t it a cool idea – a men`s stale pantsuit combined with fur lined Birkenstocks?
The furry birkenstocks were the star of several shootings including a great one in French Vogue., which featured Andreea Diaconu. However, as far as I remember they weren’t an instant fashion week street style hit and I only saw them once in reality in the street. This might in part by due to the high price tag of the mink lined sandal (around $895) …
Andreea-Diaconu wearing Celine fur sandals, Vogue Paris, Feb 2013
Taking this into account several brands recognized the potential of a birkenstock style sandal and launched their version for spring 2014. Besides the designer shoes the original brand launched several special editions and is now available at online stores like net-a-porter.com.
Birkenstock inspired sandals at Givenchy by Riccardo Tisci, SS2014, photo@style.com
Giambattista Valli Birkenstock-inspired footwear, Resort 2014, photo@style.com
Céline by Phoebe Philo, Resort 2014, photo@style.com
Birkenstocks or their designer counterparts are definitely comfortable and practical. However, are they really stylish? Whats your opinion? Are you going to follow the trend for spring!?
