Proenza Schouler’s Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez first partnered with cult German footwear brand Birkenstocks in March 2020. Incorporating its youthful aesthetic into Birkenstocks classic Milano and Arizona styles while staying true to its core values of quality and function. (of course, they sold out nearly immediately, might we add.) Now, the two brands are back for an encore of Proenza Schouler x Birkenstock sandals, which launches on August 2.
The New York-based ready-to-wear label continues the same styles that were beloved by fans of both brands back in March 2020. Inspired by utilitarian workwear and athletic footwear, the sandals are crafted from mirrored calf leather and are designed with a hook-and-loop closure instead of hardware buckles. Peruse of Birkenstocks. The second drop comes in exciting new colorways that are a staple to the Proenza Schouler brand including, cobalt blue, burgundy. Of course, the sandals also include neutrals in black and white.
GRAZIA caught up with Proenza Schouler’s co-founders McCollough and Hernandez to chat about their vision for the capsule collection. “We wanted to use what we learned from the first collaboration, namely that our woman really responds to pieces that are both easy and versatile while never sacrificing that difficult to pinpoint quality that makes it feel quintessentially Proenza Schouler.” says the duo in an exclusive quote to GRAZIA. “For this second collection, we really wanted to build on those ideas and expand the assortment to include a wider range of colors that can transition easily from late Summer to early Fall. We love that the styles are unisex, so the boys can finally participate in the work we do.”
The creative liaison enlisted photographer Collier Schorr to bring their vision to life. Ultimate Brooklyn cool-girl and singer-songwriter King Princess, models the entire collection (and represents the collection oh-so-well.) With the continued inspiration of utilitarian workwear and athletic footwear, the sandals are crafted from mirrored calf leather and are designed with a hook-and-loop closure instead of hardware buckles. Peruse of Birkenstocks. The second drop of exciting new colorways includes staples to the Proenza Schouler brand: cobalt blue, burgundy, and of course, neutrals in black, ecru, and white.
There’s a lot of discussion around where should these sandals be worn. So of course we had to go straight to the source and ask.”In terms of styling, we designed the shoes with a polished specchio leather with the intention that they could be worn in a lot of different settings” says McCollough and Hernandez in the interview. “They are durable enough for city life, but are also comfortable enough to wear at home or in the country.”
If you missed out on the Proenza Schouler x Birkenstock first drop, here’s your chance to snag you a pair of the designer collab. The collection will be available starting August 6 at the Birkenstock 1774 website, the Proenza Schouler website, and select retailers worldwide.
