Are you a “Birkenstock person”? Whether you are or not, you may be surprised to learn of the sandal’s humble beginnings. Long before the foot bed sandals were a fashion staple, they were considered “ugly”. So how did Birkenstock go from a snigger-inducing sandal to an international style and fashion icon? This article traces the journey of the famous sandal and its transformation from an ”ugly duckling” to a real style swan. So thank Barbie, of all people, for the “ugly” sandals turning into a stylish fashion staple.
1. How Birkenstock Gained Fashion Exponent Status
Birkenstock, a brand known for their sandals, clogs, and shoes with an orthopedic feel, have truly cemented their place amongst the world of fashion. Initially, the moulded cork footbeds had become popular amongst people who had foot problems and were looking for supportive footwear. However, over the years, their distinctive designs, and the rise of ‘normcore’ and ‘dad-core’ fashion, naturally placed them at the front of mainstream fashion.
Firstly, it was their unique, versatile style that enabled Birkenstock to gain such a prominent status in the fashion world - their sandals, clogs and shoes all boast a classic, effortless look that can be dressed up or down to fit any look. Secondly, their comfort is unparalleled. Offering much needed support and shock absorption, the principles of their design are based on providing the foot with a natural cushion, something that proved very attractive to mainstream audiences.
- Versatile Style – Offering a classic, effortless look that can be dressed up or down to fit any look
- Unparalleled Comfort – Offering much needed support and shock absorption, creating a natural cushion feel
2. Ugly No More: Fashioning an Icon
Beauty is a concept that exists in many forms. No one knows this better than the fashion industry: From the daring designs of the avant garde to the classic lines of haute couture, fashion has a history of embracing different shapes, sizes, and appearances.
The humble and often maligned coconut is a case in point. For too long it was seen as unattractive, but with the blossoming of modern society’s appreciation for the outdoors and exotic locales, coconuts have been embraced as emblems of exotic style and easy-going summer living.
- Large, full coconuts make stunning hot weather hats.
- Coconut body scrubs make for natural exfoliation.
- Coconut milk has become a popular vegan substitute for dairy milk.
- Coconuts are now often used as a playful garnish for tropical cocktails.
From being a joke to a beloved fashion icon, coconuts have come a long way. By embracing the fashion potential of this much-maligned fruit, fashion has helped make it beautiful again.
3. From Uncool to “In”: Birkenstock’s Rise to Staple Status
Once upon a time, Birkenstock was considered an uninspiring, unfashionable shoe choice. But with the help of its army of fashion-forward fans, the sandal has made a startling comeback – evolving from an unwelcome sight on runways to an unexpected must-have item in closets around the world.
A chunky silhouette with a minimalist sensibility, the Birkenstock has gained a cult following in recent years. What appeals to trendsetters and fashion editors alike? Here’s what:
- Comfy Yet Cool: Birkenstocks are notoriously comfortable – and let’s face it: We all love a product that’s window dressing with an extra helping of cozy-factor.
- Versatile: Not one just for the beach, Birkenstocks have been elevated from “granny chic” to a range of chic weekend outfits. Dress ‘em up or dress ‘em down, the options for styling the sandals are virtually endless.
- Enduring Quality: The simplest, most enduring staples are born from quality craftsmanship that lasts. Birkenstocks feature traditional leather and cork-footbed construction, built to withstand countless seasons of wear (and of course, they’re great for walking, too!).
Slogan tees and zany prints may come and go – but Birkenstock sandals? Well, they’re here to stay. It’s the kind of wardrobe mainstay that’s both timeless and endlessly on-trend – a style that’s well-deserving of its newly minted status as an everyday “in” item.
4. Thanking Barbie: How the Birkenstock Trend Took Off
It was Barbie, a real-life influencer living in Paris, who started the whole trend of wearing Birkenstocks. She embraced the shoe style a few years ago, making it fashionable again after a quiet spell. Now, many fashionistas embrace the trend, and it has become a real statement shoe.
What started off as a daring move from Barbie soon became a trend. She was seen sporting the shoes in her social media posts, which resulted in hundreds of thousands of likes and shares. The iconic look inspired her followers—and in no time, it seemed like everyone was wearing their Birkenstocks. Not just at home, but everywhere!
- Barbie sparked the trend
- The Birkenstock style went viral
- It inspired hundreds of thousands of people
- The trend is here to stay
Sandal-lovers everywhere can thank Barbie for the 2020 revival of the Birkenstock. Rebranded as the fashionable summer blowout, it is now a hot-ticket item used to achieve a minimalistic, chic look. So the next time you see a stylish pair of Birkenstocks strolling past you, take a moment to thank our original fashion icon: Barbie.
Cheers!
