Birkenstock has tapped five creatives from Berlin and London in an effort to embody what contemporary streetwear looks like. Each artist has put their creative spin on select Birkenstock models that have found a place in their everyday shoe rotation, including the ‘Zurich’ and the ‘Kyoto.’
The ‘Zurich,’ which arrived in 1964, is a close-toe shoe with thin straps and large buckles. This model relies on a suede construction for a super soft feel, as well as an additional foam layer that will help stop foot pain before it starts. British musician Goya Gumbani offers his twist on this silhouette, providing an old school aesthetic to the classic footwear offering.
The ‘Kyoto’ is a newer model from Birkenstock that was initially debuted in 2020 and has now been made over by fashion retail expert Nehjat Ramoth. This shoe offers a durable, extended grip, nubuck leather construction, and other features that make it a more versatile option.
The rest of the models can be viewed in the Fall/Winter 2022 campaign and shopped online at the Birkenstock website.
Street-Designed Suede Footwear
Birkenstock Taps Five Creatives for the Zurich and Kyoto Models
Trend Themes
1. Street-designed Footwear - Opportunity for brands to collaborate with creatives to provide a modern spin on classic footwear offerings.
2. Suede Construction - Innovation opportunities for materials companies to create super soft and comfortable suede options for footwear.
3. Versatile Options - Brands have the potential to capitalize on the demand for footwear that can be worn in a variety of settings and situations.
Industry Implications
1. Footwear Industry - Opportunity for footwear companies to collaborate with creatives to stay current with changing trends and tailor offerings to specific markets.
2. Materials Industry - Opportunities for innovation in materials development for improved comfort and durability.
3. Fashion Retail Industry - Opportunity to offer customized, exclusive collaborations with artists and creatives to appeal to a broader range of consumers.