Sandra‘s Closet

Dior presents the CD 1947 capsule

Dior is unveiling an exclusive new men’s capsule, CD 1947, celebrating the infinitely rich dialogue between Kim Jones and the legacy of Monsieur Dior. Inspired by the founding couturier’s love of nature and gardens, the creations are distinguished by their sportswear cuts and technically advanced materials, ideal for the outdoors; thick canvas and polar knits are combined in silhouettes that merge elegance and minimalist spirit.

T-shirts, shirts, sweatshirts and Bermuda shorts are available in a palette of soft, luminous shades, from light blue to beige, including the Dior Gray, a favorite of the House. Emblazoning this new line, the «Christian Dior» signature and «1947» – the year of Monsieur Dior’s first fashion show – feature on ready-to-wear items and accessories.

A bob, a bandana, a belt or even B27 sneakers, reinvented in the colors of the capsule, are adorned with these essential symbols, also embroidered on the Saddle and Dior Lingot 50 bags. A jewelry series and a carabiner embellished with the initials «CD˚ complete this wardrobe, an invitation to travel and adventure.

The ultimate surprise, a gardening set pays tribute to Christian Dior’s passion for the art of gardening. This limited-edition ensemble is composed of a folding leather seat – evoking the curves of the Saddle – and a leather-clad shovel and rake, specially designed for this capsule with the finest craftsmanship; all objects of desire to be discovered from June 2022.

Dior and Birkenstock present an unprecedented collaboration Dior by Birkenstock

«Thankfully, there are flowers,» said Christian Dior. He was known as a gallery owner, an architecture enthusiast, and a passionate fashion designer, but he also delighted in gardening. It was in Granville, in the rose garden of the family home overlooking the sea, that this fascination with the interweaving of nature and culture blossomed in his childhood.

Alongside his mother, Madeleine, the young christian enriched his knowledge of botany among the roses, wisteria, maritime pines and reseda. «I loved more than anything else to learn by heart the names and descriptions of flowers in the color catalogs published by the Vilmorin-Andrieux house», wrote monsieur Dior in his memoirs.

For the Dior Men’s F/W 2022 collection, the house and Kim Jones pay tribute to this passion, joining forces with Birkenstock for the first time to reinvent two of its iconic models. Standing for function and quality, the German brand creates unique shoes – both in form and function – to support walking as nature intended, drawing from a heritage that can be traced back to 1774, the year when shoemaker brothers Johannes and Johann Adam Birkenstock set out on their orthopedically inspired footwear journey – a commitment to craftsmanship they passed down from one generation to the next.

The Milano, launched in 1965, was designed as an outdoor sandal for active people and nature lovers, whereas the Tokyo model was launched in 1987 as protective footwear for walking and professions requiring a lot of standing. Both of the collaboration’s felt or suede models are dressed in the season’s hues, in addition to essential Dior gray.

Celebrating the art of gardening, they serve up functional style thanks to rubber details and industrial buckles. The result of a unique creative dialogue, Birkenstock’s anatomically shaped orthopedic cork footbed is lined with smooth leather, while the outsole combines the Dior oblique pattern with the German brand’s signature bones graphic.

As a final surprise, an exceptional version of the Tokyo, hand-embroidered with delicate flowers, completes the show’s couture silhouettes, a new symbol of Christian Dior’s love for nature. A contemporary ode to functionality and elegance, reflecting several skills of excellence.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Dior
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The second instalment to the sell-out collaboration, Manolo Blahnik for BIRKENSTOCK issues a new collection of boundary-pushing icons.

The ultra-modern sensibility of the Arizona and the Boston are once again included in this collection, comprising of four new styles reinterpreted through Manolo Blahnik’s absolute and archetypal flair. The second drop introduces a newly designed style Rodra delivering eye-catching new editions in polka dot and PVC.

Rodra polka dot
The Rodra sandal in all-over polka dot is a new style created for BIRKENSTOCK by Manolo Blahnik, reflecting the playful attitude of the house. An elegant cross between the creativity of both brands, and a nod to the robust function of BIRKENSTOCK’s footbeds, the Rodra elevates the sandal for a new era.

Boston polka dot
Manolo Blahnik makes a bold statement with the polka dot print adorning calf hair Boston styles. This timeless polka dot is a signature of the collaboration and has featured across many of Blahnik’s past collections. The round-toed Boston slide has legendary status now amplified by the all-out ostentation of this new print.

Arizona pvc black & pvc white
The iconic PVC style of celebrated shoemaker Manolo Blahnik harks back to his classic 1970 designs, embodying a lightness in a structural and tactile sense. Now, Manolo Blahnik combines his transparent designs with a see-through spin on the Birkenstock Arizona sandal, arriving in two black and white PVC styles.

Presenting their most striking designs to date, the new styles in the Manolo Blahnik for BIRKENSTOCK collection will be available June 23rd at 1774.com, manoloblahnik.com, all Manolo Blahnik retail locations, as well as selected retailers worldwide.

Prices will range between € 345 and € 395.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Birkenstock / Manolo Blahnik
#manoloblahnikxbirkenstock
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This week, BIRKENSTOCK and iconic shoe designer Manolo Blahnik announced an upcoming collaboration, showcasing their mastery of craftsmanship and creativity. Inspired by quality and function – the core ingredients of BIRKENSTOCK, Manolo Blahnik unites with the house, furnishing his characteristic embellishments and creative dynamic symbols for iconic BIRKENSTOCK styles.

Two years ago, Manolo Blahnik and his niece, company CEO Kristina Blahnik, were featured in the BIRKENSTOCK S/S 2020 campaign. Photographer Jack Davison lensed the pair in Manolo Blahnik’s first store on Old Church Street, London, wearing their own Birkenstocks. It marked the starting point of an even deeper collaboration—the end result of which is this unique collection.

Manolo and Kristina Blahnik photographed by Jack Davison for the Birkenstock S/S 2020 campaign.

«Birkenstocks have been in my wardrobe since the very beginning (of time!!) – I have loved and worn mine for many years. I am thrilled that we have been able to collaborate, fusing the Manolo Blahnik aesthetic with the everyday comfort of Birkenstocks is simply wonderful!» – Manolo Blahnik

«BIRKENSTOCK share both brand and core design values much like our own and it has been a joy to bring this to life in the new Manolo Blahnik for BIRKENSTOCK collection. Timeless, high-quality designs, crafted to be treasured and enjoyed is what we set out to create and I am delighted with the outcome. It is a privilege to cement our relationship further with BIRKENSTOCK through this collaboration, following the S/S 2020 Personality Campaign in which my uncle and I featured.» – Kristina Blahnik

The collection reinvents the BIRKENSTOCK style with its proudly glamorous detailing, featuring Manolo Blahnik’s trademark emphasis on all eye-catching details. The nonpareil flair for which Manolo Blahnik is renowned meets the premium craftsmanship of BIRKENSTOCK, creating a capsule at once radically modern and dynamic for both brands. Embellished with crystals and packaged in exclusive polka dot shoebox and dust bag following traditional Manolo Blahnik design, this richly coloured collection accommodates the best elements of both brands–for a remarkable, regal meeting of creative minds.

The first release of the collaboration is set to be unveiled at 1774.com, manoloblahnik.com, all Manolo Blahnik retail locations, as well as selected retailers worldwide from March 24th, 2022. The second release of styles will launch in June 2022.

Arizona crystal velvet in fuchsia and blue
Playful glamour meets everyday style, in Manolo Blahnik’s show-stopping spin on the Arizona sandal. This rich new visions line sublimely reinvents the Arizona with luxurious upper in velvet, microfiber lined French piping, and the inspired embellishment of Birkenstock’s buckle with crystals. Marrying chic and comfort, Manolo Blahnik for BIRKENSTOCK embraces a soulful spin on favourites. Paired with Birkenstock’s anatomically shaped footbed, this Arizona shows the true potential and everyday glamour that you deserve from your favourite pair.

Boston crystal velvet in fuchsia and blue
A super-star showcase of luxury design and versatile craft, the Boston Crystal Velvet reinvents a classic
for a whole new world of occasions. Inspired and designed by Manolo Blahnik, the premium buckle is
playfully embellished with crystals – marrying this new motif with an incredibly luxurious take on the
clog, including French piping in colour-matching smooth leather. Embrace this regal and remarkable new spin on a favourite shoe, in fuchsia and blue.

Arizona crystal smooth leather in black
The refinery of the iconic BIRKENSTOCK Arizona receives a sparkling twist, courtesy of Manolo Blahnik’s glamorous vision. With the anatomical shaped cork footbed in premium soft leather now accompanied by premium embellished crystals, the Manolo Blahnik for BIRKENSTOCK collaboration envisions a regal and remarkable twist.

Boston crystal smooth leather in Black
Step into a new vision of luxury, thanks to Manolo Blahnik’s dazzling take on the classic Boston clog. Luxurious smooth leather accompanies the crystals now adorning BIRKENSTOCK’s signature buckle–the spirit of craftsmanship that both brands celebrate is glamorously shown. A master of detailing, Manolo Blahnik is the perfect partner for Birkenstock’s unrivalled approach to craftsmanship and style.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Birkenstock / Manolo Blahnik
#manoloblahnikxbirkenstock
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Birkenstock continues its collaboration with Proenza Schouler, reimagining styles from the original collection in bold new colors.

Proenza Schouler, the New York ready-to-wear brand, founded by Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez in 2002, unite with Birkenstock by their common appreciation for form and functionality, the collection is inspired by a combination of utilitarian workwear and athletic footwear. Executed in a polished, specchio calf leather, the shoes feature a hook-and-loop closure in place of hardware buckles and are finished with industrial contrast topstitching to further refine the classic Birkenstock sandals, Arizona and Milano.

The collaboration showcases iconic Proenza Schouler palettes with vibrant cobalt blue, rustic luggage burgundy, and elevated neutrals in black and ecru; a transitional color range intended to carry the wearer from late summer to early fall.

«We are thrilled to expand on our collaboration with Birkenstock; Birkenstock and Proenza Schouler both share a common respect and admiration for the craftmanship and detailed work that is integral to all of our products. We are excited to pick-up where we left off and expand on the collection with fresh colorways that feel very in the moment and true to our brand.» – Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez

For this special re-issue, Birkenstock and Proenza Schouler have enlisted photographer Collier Schorr to capture King Princess as the face of the campaign. The New York native singer and songwriter emulates the artistic and unapologetic individualism that is heritage to both brand identities. The capsule collection will be available at 1774.com, proenzaschouler.com, select Birkenstock and Proenza Schouler retail locations, as well as select retailers worldwide from August 6th.

TO SHOP BIRKENSTOCK ONLINE, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Birkenstock – © Collier Schorr 
@birkenstock1774 @proenzaschouler #birkenstockxproenzaschouler
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Following the success of the first two seasons, the partnership between BIRKENSTOCK and RICK OWENS is set to continue. The original and first project for BIRKENSTOCK re-emphasizes the importance of this project, being more than a collaboration.

The designs of the Rick Owens Arizona and Boston styles with extended straps, as well as the Rotterdam were updated with black metal rivets and hardware. All styles come in classic black, varying smooth, soft leather. Additionally, the Arizona and Boston are available in iridescent foiled leather.

«For our continuation with BIRKENSTOCK, in addition to the longer straps from our first season together, I’ve added a sprinkling of riveting on sandals that could have come from one of my favorite Fritz Lang movies», states Rick Owens.

The collection features the anatomically shaped BIRKENSTOCK cork latex footbed, covered with smooth premium Nappa Leather and the Rick Owens co-branding.

«Rick Owens continues to play an important role in our partnerships, his voice being totally unique and more relevant than ever. We are proud to partner with this independent designer on such level», states BIRKENSTOCK CEO Oliver Reichert.

The collection is available now to shop at NET-À-PORTER, and MATCHESFASHION.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: @birkenstock1774 @rickowensonline #birkenstockxrickowens
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Birkenstock’s partnership with London fashion institution Central Saint Martins is launching the result of a two-year project with the BA Fashion History & Theory and MA Fashion courses. Releasing four designs and Birkenstock’s first-ever Archive style. Initiated in 2018, the project saw the CSM BA Fashion History & Theory course research and enrich Birkenstock’s prolific archive. Enabling students to immerse into Birkenstock’s culture and legacy to finally extract and define the core elements of Birkenstock’s history spanning over 250 years. The result of this research translated into a second project with the MA Fashion course. Inviting students to give their interpretation of emblematic styles in their contemporary way, thus shaping the future of the iconic German brand.

The four winning students with Fabio Piras.

One year later a jury of 12 renowned industry leaders led by Birkenstock CEO Oliver Reichert, MA Fashion Course Director Fabio Piras and fashion critic Sarah Mower MBE, were invited by Birkenstock to review all student portfolios and selected a shortlist of 10 finalists awarded as the winning designs with a first bursary award.

My favorites: Moto Sandal by Alex Wolfe.

Over a year of product development, four of the student designs have qualified for serial production.  Each design has the student’s name embossed in the iconic Birkenstock footbed. Experiencing the challenge to realize the product innovation delivered by these students is a good challenge. «We are proud to have a proven impact on these early careers and are counting this as one of our most relevant projects», states CEO Oliver Reichert.

Bukarest style in white by Alecsander Rothschild

The release of the collection is supported by a short film, seeing the jury and the professors exchange their views on the final product with the students. The jury was headed by Sarah Mower MBE and included CSM alumni Mary Katrantzou and Roksanda discussing with Gert Jonkers, Claudia Croft, Mimma Viglezio, Osman Ahmed, and Nick Vinson.

THE COLLECTION

Moto Sandal by CSM graduate Alex Wolfe (1991*)
Using Birkenstock’s expertise in orthopaedic shoe design Wolfe’s take on the Rotterdam Moto sandal challenges us with urban graphic as well as a striking upper leg design. Relying on Birkenstock’s very own eudermic material Birko-Flor he creates a flexible shield, whereas the foot lining of Nappa leather and suede offers a soft and soothing bed.

Cosy style by CSM graduate Dingyun Zhang (1995*)
Zhang’s pillow like version of the Arizona sandal takes inspiration from futuristic outerwear and oversized puffers. As a homage to comfort Cosy transforms the Arizona into a supportive, timeless classic. Its monochrome, contrasting color choice of snow white straps and black sole (and vice versa) fortifies the long-lasting design approach.

Terra style by CSM graduate Saskia Lenaerts (1993*)
As a reference to the classic Milano sandal, Terra’s prominent stitches replicates footlines, while Suede, Nappa and Nubuk leather offer comfort. Using contrasting colours like black/white and black/ultra blue the designer recreates the shadow play of an engraved footprint in the sand.

Bukarest style by CSM student Alecsander Rothschild (1992*)
Inspired by Brancusi’s contrasting use of different materials and textures Rothschild works equally with three kinds of leather to express his version of Birkenstock: Rustic black oiled nubuck leather or innocent white debossed leather, Rothschild offers a third version in shiny Silver.

Tallahassee Archive Style
To complement the student designs, the iconic Birkenstock Tallahassee Style from the 1990s sees a rebirth in contrast color designs. Uniting an artistic touch with long practiced craftsmanship the Tallahassee ornaments the foot without compromising comfort. As a woven coat the debossed leather enrobes the wearer like a second skin.

The collection is available with select stores worldwide and on 1774.com from now.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Birkenstock, © Walter Pfeiffer
#BIRKENSTOCKxCSM

BIRKENSTOCK, the cult German footwear company and the iconic New York fashion brand, Proenza Schouler, have teamed up to launch a unisex collaboration. Inspired by the BIRKENSTOCK core ingredients of quality and function, Proenza Schouler’s Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez add their uniquely New York point of view to two iconic Birkenstock styles – the Arizona and Milano.

Birkenstock x Proenza Schouler – Arizona

The shoes feature Velcro closures in place of hardware buckles and are finished with industrial contrast topstitching to further refine the classic sandals while maintaining their traditional form and functionality. The collaboration features a timeless palette of black, white, ochre, and silver, and is rendered in polished, specchio calf leather derived from past and present Proenza Schouler collections.

Proenza Schouler S/S 2020 runway

For this special partnership, BIRKENSTOCK and Proenza Schouler have enlisted Juergen Teller and Peter Miles as creative collaborators. For the launch, a 3-dimensional visual concept were designed that embodies both the artistic approach of the designers’ process as well as the timelessness and elevated craftmanship of the BIRKENSTOCK manufacturing heritage.

Birkenstock x Proenza Schouler – Milano

«We are excited to be partnering with BIRKENSTOCK as we have been longtime admirers and devotees of the brand. We are also thrilled to be working on this exciting venture alongside Juergen and Peter. BIRKENSTOCK and Proenza Schouler both share a common respect and admiration for the craftsmanship and detailed work that goes into all of our products, and we are excited to celebrate these all-important qualities in our collaboration.» – Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez, Designers and Founders, Proenza Schouler.

TO SHOP BIRKENSTOCK PROENZA SCHOULER, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Top Image: Photography Juergen Teller – Art direction Peter Miles; via Net-à-Porter
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