Anyone who has ever dabbled in granola pursuits can attest to the comfort of Birkenstocks. Yes, they are a pleasure to wear, but what they are not is stylish. It shouldn’t even be a question: unless you align yourself with a crunchier crowd (and there’s nothing wrong with that), Birkenstocks have no place on your feet. I guess what I’m trying to say is that Birkenstocks have no place in fashion … but if Phoebe Philo says otherwise, it’s probably in my best interest to step back. The Céline designer, beloved for her airy, streamlined silhouettes (and to-die-for handbags), designed a Birkenstock-esque flat sandal with a decidedly un-hippie mink lining, priced at €700 (close to $1,000). That’s a lot of cash for a glorified Jesus shoe.
But in a true testament to high fashion’s ripple effect, the latest issue of British Vogue features a pair of classic white Birks, and the same shoe was spotted on the runway of menswear duo Agi & Sam at London Fashion Week. Will we be seeing a resurgence of this particular footwear previously favored by the hackysack set? It’s possible, but I just can’t imagine society tastemakers like Anna Wintour giving them the sign-off. I do, however, peg Kanye West as the next to sport the shoe. Just you watch. [Guardian]
