Regardless of how you feel about Birkenstock sandals, there’s no question that the brand is on the up. Leveraging the power of collaborations, the footwear brand has cleverly grown its clout by partnering with brands such as Stüssy, Rick Owens and, Jil Sander in recent times. But the latest Birkenstock collaboration with Proenza Schouler might be their best yet.
It’s the second occasion the two brands have worked together, this time putting the emphasis on function-forward design using the Arizona and Milano Birkenstock styles. Colour is key in the collection, employing strong, but tastefully restrained tones including ochre, cobalt blue, and rusty oxblood.
To further emphasise the utilitarian feeling of the go-anywhere do-anything sandal, several styles feature white or yellow contrast stitching across the leather upper. To let the colourful leather upper stand out further, the designers have left the soles as either naked cork or black leather-covered cork.
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After the success of their first collaboration in 2020, both brands were excited to begin work on this collaboration. In a press statement, Proenza Schouler’s Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez explained, “Birkenstock and Proenza Schouler both share a common respect and admiration for the craftsmanship and detailed work that is integral to all of our products.”
“We are excited to pick up where we left off and expand on the collection with fresh colourways that feel very in the moment and true to our brand,” they went on to add. Certainly, the links between the two collections are clear, both taking the humble cork-soled sandal and elevating it in a cleanly considered way. Very Proenza Schouler.
Birkenstock’s CEO Oliver Reichert also expressed his enthusiasm for the new collaboration, stating that, “… founders Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez have been valuable partners that are completely aligned with our core values. Two creatives that strive to find the perfect balance between form and functionality.”
The Birkenstock and Proenza Schouler collaboration is currently available for pre-order across all nine colourways, with an estimated ship date of August 6th. Prices range from AU$378 and AU$677.
For more details, or to seriously level up your sandal game, hit the link below.
