Fashion's Most Retro Shoe Just Owned The Catwalk In Paris

During the Paris Fashion Week menswear shows, there was plenty of drama, but one event that took many of the fashion pack by surprise was Birkenstocks on the catwalk.

The humble Birkenstock, which has enjoyed a resurgence thanks to the never-ending obsession with the 90s, this season was given a haute update with a catwalk show – a move which signals a new direction for the brand.

The brand has spent 242 years conspicuously opting out of the show cycle, a move which reflects the slow, made-to-last ethos at the heart of their brand. Started in 1774, Birkenstock was launched in Langen-Bergheim by Johann Adam Birkenstock and subsequently grew into a leader in the sandal industry.

For the SS18 Birkenstock show, which took place at the Orangerie Ephémère in Tuileries Garden, the collection debuted the signature sandals, alongside belts, bags and also custom clothes made specially for the event.

Alongside leather models, Birkenstock offered sportier styles that featured many velcro straps, as well as suede loafers and gladiator styles. Metallic hues and rivet details added a futuristic edge to classic styles. The new additions will surely delight fans looking to expand their functional wardrobe.

The catwalk show is an exciting new step for Birkenstock, reflecting their ever evolving approach to design and relationship with fashion.
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About the author

India Doyle

A contributor to titles including Vogue, the Guardian, KEIN, Rollacoaster, Wonderland and Twin magazine, India Doyle joined Culture Trip to help launch their fashion section for the EMEA region, where she focussed on giving emerging designers across the globe a platform to reach international audiences. Now based between London and Greece, she is one of Culture Trip's Greek contributors and covers cultural life in Athens.