Jil Sander X Birkenstock To Release 4 New Unisex Sandals
Birkenstock and Jil Sander have collaborated on first their project together. The collection, conceived by Jil Sander creative directors Lucie and Luke Meier, is inspired by nature and meant for life outside of cities. The four new unisex shoes and sandals blend the sense of luxury, comfort, and design of Jil Sander with the authentic Birkenstock silhouette.
The Meiers expressed their fondness for the brand, “We have worn Birkenstocks for as long as we can remember. They are comfortable to wear, but also comforting. They have been with us in some remarkable places, from camping in the Canadian wilderness to sitting fireside in the Swiss Alps. However, the quality and integrity of Birkenstock is what convinced us to work with them.”
The new styles will be issued under the more relaxed sub-label, Jil Sander+. Combining Birkenstock’s DNA with Jil Sander’s ethos, the classic Arizona, Milano, and Berlin sandals have all been revamped. Exaggerated silhouettes are more rounded, wider, and have larger outsoles. With a palette of cream, olive, and black, enlarged and elongated straps are adorned with satin nickel buckles. The new Velan design is a reinvention of the Berlin closed-toe sandal, with a soft nappa strap that wraps around the ankles.
Birkenstock has been on a roll of fashion-forward collaborations, as they have most recently partnered with Rick Owens, Central Saint Martins, and Proenza Schouler. However, the brand seems to be very particular with which partners they chose, as it was rumored they turned both down Vetements and Supreme.
Birkenstock CEO Oliver Reichert commented, “We chose to work with Jil Sander, believing in the new interpretation of Lucie and Luke Meier. In our view, they have given this important brand relevance and authenticity. Together we achieved what we always strive for – real newness and product innovation.”
The collection will be available at jilsander.com, 1774.com, and mytheresa.com exclusively for one week from July 1st, then at select retailers and Jil Sander stores worldwide from July 8th.
