shoes Archives | Wedding ETC

For brides who refuse to sacrifice comfort for style, this collaboration might just be the wedding shoe moment of the year. Birkenstock has teamed up with New York-based bridal designer Danielle Frankel on a limited-edition footwear capsule that reimagines the brand’s most iconic silhouettes for weddings and special occasions.

The result? Bridal shoes that look fashion-forward, feel supportive, and are designed to last long after the last dance.

A modern take on bridal footwear

The six-piece Birkenstock x Danielle Frankel collection reworks four classic Birkenstock styles, alongside two exclusive designs created specifically for Frankel’s studio. Familiar shapes like the Arizona, Madrid and Tulum have been elevated with satin finishes, delicate ties, pearls and soft floral detailing, all while staying true to Birkenstock’s signature aesthetic.

Standout styles include a white satin Arizona adorned with pearls, a pared-back Madrid with refined straps, and a Tulum sandal updated with a sleek slingback. For brides looking for something more artisanal, the hand-painted Boston clog and chiffon-embroidered Arizona offer a distinctly couture feel.

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Comfort remains the priority

Despite the romantic makeover, comfort is still at the heart of every design. Each shoe features Birkenstock’s cork-latex footbed, ensuring proper support throughout a long wedding day.

Why the fashion world is paying attention

Unsurprisingly, the collaboration has already generated buzz ahead of its official release. International fashion titles have praised the collection for challenging traditional bridal norms, celebrating individuality, and offering an alternative to classic heels.

Danielle Frankel, a long-time Birkenstock wearer herself, approached the partnership as a study in merging practicality with romance. Pearls, bespoke floral motifs and hand-finished details nod to her bridal couture roots, while production in Birkenstock’s German factories ensures the craftsmanship both brands are known for.

Is it for everyone? Probably not

Let’s be honest: bridal Birkenstocks won’t win over every bride, and for some, this will be a hard no. But for others, this collection will feel refreshingly liberating. And perhaps that’s exactly who it’s meant for.

When and where to shop the collection

The Birkenstock x Danielle Frankel collection launches on February 12, 2026, with select styles previewing during New York Fashion Week from February 11 to 16. It is said that the range will be available online via birkenstock.com and daniellefrankelstudio.com, as well as at selected retailers worldwide.

ALSO SEE: Looking for wedding hairstyle inspo for all hair lengths? We’ve got you covered

Looking for wedding hairstyle inspo for all hair lengths? We’ve got you covered

Feature image: Bridal Guide/Facebook

By Keenan Martin

It’s become an unspoken rule for the groom to take a peripheral role at weddings. So while you may not steal the attention of those attending your wedding, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t put a little effort into looking your best on the big day.

Shoe vs Suit

Probably the most important factor when it comes to selecting a shoe is how it will complement your suit style and colour. Traditional black suits should always be paired with black shoes, and stay away from lengthy white socks if your pants are going to be cropped above the ankle. Brown shoes tend to pair well with darker colours such as midnight blue, navy or maroon.

Suit styles are often overlooked, so knowing more about your suit will help make choosing a shoe so much easier. Brogues tend to be the best choice for tuxedos, while Oxfords are more suited to your formal suits. Loafers are a popular stylistic choice these days but should be used with caution, these shoes are best worn when the pants have been cropped above the ankle.

Comfort is key

Comfort should always be of the utmost importance since weddings are long and you’ll most likely be on your feet for most of the day. Do not compromise on comfort! Your bride-to-be will not appreciate blistered feet on the honeymoon, and neither will you. Make sure you have the appropriate socks, preferably with non-slip grips to avoid them sliding down your foot. If your shoes are brand new, wear them around the house for a few days before to see if you’ll need any additional support, like heel grips or insoles.

Consider where you’re getting married

Another thing to consider is location – if you’re planning to be wed on a beach in the sand, perhaps the shiny brogues aren’t the best choice. Consider your environment, and particularly, the surface you’ll be strutting your stuff on for the ceremony all the way through pictures, then onto the dancefloor.

A last thought…

Of course not every couple prefers the traditional wedding with the traditional attire, every couple is unique and should allow for self expression. One thing is for sure, sneakers are trendy and more men are incorporating them for a touch of ‘cool’. If you are going to opt for the more casual footwear, nothing is more regal or clean than an all white Nike Air Force 1, just saying.

Picture: Unsplash

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Bridal Birkenstocks? Danielle Frankel just made them a thing