I have been buying Birkenstock for over twenty years. I only buy one pair for when I travel to South East Asia. Due to being hot, they get trashed within three months of wearing them. Leather and heat don’t mix well and also leather Birkenstocks give me foot fungus. So I stick to plastic shoes wearing brands like Melissa from Brazil. I find that Birkenstock’s quality of today is far less enduring than they were 15 years ago.
They are very good for beachwear comfort.
The previously unattractive shoe has undergone a fashionable transformation and is now approaching a significant initial public offering in the stock market. The fashion industry has embraced this trend of unattractive footwear.
In the past ten years, several footwear styles such as New Balance dad trainers, Teva hiking sandals, Uggs, and Crocs have gained significant popularity. However, none of them has achieved the same level of universal appeal across different age groups, economic backgrounds, social classes, and personal preferences as the Birkenstock.
The Market Value Of Birkenstock
New information reveals that private equity firm L Catterton, who purchased Birkenstock in 2021 for a value of 4.1 billion, is currently contemplating a stock market listing valued at 4.7 billion.
L Catterton, a company supported by LVMH CEO Bernard Arnault, who is the second wealthiest person globally after Elon Musk, has engaged Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan Chase to explore various possibilities for Birkenstock, such as a potential initial public offering in the United States.
Teaming up with luxury brands has been a game changer for Birkenstock. The lockdown of two years also created a boom due to these shoes being super versatile and comfortable around the home.
Brand History
The brand, with a history spanning 250 years, has experienced significant fiscal growth in the last two years, establishing itself as a prominent fashion choice. Previously associated with a more niche market, Birks were commonly worn by granola-loving hippies or vacationing dads, often with socks and not as a fashion statement. However, Birks has now gained widespread popularity, becoming a common sight on city streets and at summer gatherings.
Birkenstocks have gained popularity due to their non-fashionable nature. Originally, the company was established in 1774 by cobbler Johann Adam Birkenstock in rural Germany. In 1913, they introduced their first contoured, cork footbed, which became a defining feature of their shoes.
When Birkenstock sandals were introduced to the US market in the 1960s, they faced significant resistance due to their unappealing appearance. Despite the positive feedback and comfort they provided, buyers were hesitant to stock them in their stores.
Since 2018, Birkenstock has been collaborating with designers to produce exclusive designs for their luxury line, Birkenstock 1774. Some notable limited editions include Marie-Louise Scis’ raffia Il Dolce Far Niente styles, Manolo Blahnik’s polka dot designs, and Proenza Schouler’s contrast stitching variations.
Barbie Movie
These shoes have made appearances at Paris Fashion Week, being paired with well-groomed pedicures on the front rows. They will also be seen in the upcoming Barbie film, where the main character has to decide between pink stilettos and brown Birkenstocks.
During the pandemic, Birkenstocks became a popular choice of footwear as they complemented the trendy floral #cottagecore dresses and provided comfort during daily walks.
These shoes have gained popularity and admiration from celebrities such as Gwyneth Paltrow, Alexa Chung, Julianne Moore, and Gigi Hadid. In fact, Frances McDormand even wore a stunning yellow pair to the Oscars in 2019.
Collaborations With Luxury Brands
Collaborations between designers consistently achieve high sales, even with price tags that can exceed $300. Consider trying a Boston if you are unable to find time for a pedicure. These shoes are a more affordable alternative to the popular 570 JW Anderson clog, which is often favored by fashion editors and was recently seen on Akshata Murthy. Despite the lower price, the Boston shoes still offer the same level of chicness.
If you haven’t tried the trend of ugly shoes yet but are interested, there’s still a chance to join in. Just make sure you can find a pair to try out.
According to personal stylist Anna Berkeley, the Arizona version is highly versatile. It can be paired with a sleek suit to add a funky touch or with a pretty dress to achieve a casual yet tough look. The objects in question have a noticeable thickness, though not excessively so. They possess certain unattractiveness, albeit not to the extent where it becomes a prominent feature.
If you have some extra money to spend, you might be interested in the latest collaboration between Dior and Birkenstock, which offers the dove grey Tokio and Milano styles. Dior will set you back just under 900 pounds.
Boston Birkenstock For Bad Toe Days
Consider trying a Boston if you are unable to find time for a pedicure. These shoes are a more affordable alternative to the popular 570 JW Anderson clog, which is often favored by fashion editors and was recently seen on Akshata Murthy. Despite the lower price, the Boston shoes still offer the same level of chicness.
Originally showcased on the men’s catwalk, these shoes are now available for sale as a unisex collection. This collaboration is expected to inspire many imitations and will keep Birkenstock in the fashion spotlight for another season.
When it comes to choosing a pair of shoes, the style doesn’t matter much. You can go for a chunky and orthopedic-looking pair, like Birkenstocks, which are currently in fashion. However, it’s important to note that you don’t have to be fashionable to wear them – the cool factor is just an added bonus.
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