The unfashionable Birkenstock sandals are in trend, thanks to 'Barbie'
Created for those who value function more than looks, those undeniably bulky and 'ugly' Birkenstock sandals have oddly turned into fashionable footwear. All credit goes to its cameo in the Margot Robbie-starrer movie Barbie. Remaining both desired and ridiculed, even after nearly 250 years of their introduction, the typical style of this well-established shoe brand is experiencing a kind of revival.
'Ugly' or not? Twitter is divided
The trendy Birkenstock sandals are causing quite a stir among consumers who can't agree on whether they are ugly or not. A scroll through Twitter showcases the split views, as some dub them 'ugly' while others give them a thumbs-up. Now, those who aren't fans of Birkenstocks have a new rival: the highly successful movie Barbie which featured the sandals in a few scenes.
Birk-hater spotted
When do Birkenstocks appear?
In the movie, Stereotypical Barbie's world crumbles as her feet go flat. Then Weird Barbie arrives with a solution. She presents two choices: stilettos or the bulky Birkenstock sandals. Barbie's not thrilled about Birkenstocks, but her feet can't rock stilettos anymore, so she ultimately chooses Birkenstocks. The sandals also serve as a representation of Barbie stepping into a world that's less glamorous and ideal.
A Birk-lover's appeal
Birkenstocks' positioning was Greta Gerwig's concept
In an interview with Popsugar, costume designer Jacqueline Durran revealed that the decision to position Birkenstocks as the ultimate "antidote" to confining heels was the brainchild of the movie's celebrated director, Greta Gerwig. Barbie's eventual choice to stay in Barbie World, sporting a pair of soft pink Birkenstocks, effectively showcases the evolution her character undergoes.
Birkenstocks is having its time
According to Lyst, searches for the Birkenstock sandals that Robbie wore in the movie surged by 110% after the film's release. On Google, searches for 'Birkenstock sandals for women' saw a whopping 346% increase. But wait, there's more! The company is now getting ready for an IPO to get listed in the stock market, and they're looking at a hefty valuation of $8 billion.
