Master cobbler Konrad Birkenstock started manufacturing and selling flexible footbed insoles in 1896 The company later decided to take their original contoured footbeds concept to the next level by creating comfy sandals. Throughout the mid-20th century, Birkenstock originally developed and sold orthopedic shoe inserts for factory-made shoes. Jessica Alba looks hot in a bralette and Birkenstocks while leaving the Andy Lecompte Salon on October 5, 2014īirkenstock is one of the longest-running footwear companies in the world, with historic roots that can be traced as far back as 1774. Lily Collins leaves Body by Simone in a pair of Birks on May 8, 2015 Kendall Jenner wears Birkenstock sandals with socks in New York City on September 12, 2019 Since the Celine debut, Birkenstock has teamed up with goth/grunge designer Rick Owens, Italian luxury label Valentino, and American clothing brand Opening Ceremony on several successful collaborations.īelow are some celebrity fans of these orthopedic, utilitarian sandals. “Birks” first broke onto the high fashion scene in 2012, when Celine’s then-creative director Pheobe Philo sent the brand’s models down the runway in them.Ĭeline matched its Spring 2013 collection to fur-lined versions of the Birkenstock Arizona sandals, and we haven’t stopped seeing these shoes since. Their popularity continues to increase and shows no signs of slowing down. That same year, Footwear News named Birkenstock the “Brand of the Year” during its 31st Achievement Awards.Īlthough they have been called “ugly sandals,” these thick-strapped, cork-soled sandals have developed a cult following. In 2017 alone, the company reportedly sold 25 million pairs of shoes. Global footwear brand Birkenstock has seen a resurgence in popularity over the last few years.Īccording to BoF, the German company’s global revenue tripled to $800 million between 20.