Forget heels, brides are now walking down the aisle in Birkenstocks

In terms of bridal fashion, the go-to trends of 2026 include sparkles, basque waists, and mini dresses — either to wear all day or change into at the afterparty.

And when it comes to footwear, it’s now out with the dainty wedding heel, and in with the… cork-footbed sandal.

The Bridal Birkenstock has officially entered the chat, as newlyweds vow not to leave the dancefloor ’til carriages, forsaking all blisters.

Historically, this German brand — better known for arch support and durability than cutting-edge style — was a staple among gardeners and dads on holiday.

But over the last few years, it’s enjoyed something of a renaissance as the redeemed ‘ugly shoe’ of the moment.

Now, a collaboration between bridal designer Danielle Frankel Hirsch and Birkenstock, has the potential to make them the new wedding reception must-have.

The bridal versions take Birkenstock’s classic styles, including the Arizona, Boston, and Madrid, and give them a complete makeover, with elegant pearls, 3D florals and dainty bow embellishments in white and ivory hues.

They’re the result of almost 100 designs Danielle dreamed up for the brand — and in her view, they represent the future of weddingwear.

‘Brides and grooms are taking ownership and searching for realness,’ she told Vogue, noting that she wanted to create something that was simultaneously ‘unravelled’ but ‘still super elevated.’

‘We don’t want an OTT shoe to take over the look in a way that’s confusing for the eye,’ the designer added. ‘We want it to all make sense together.’

This isn’t the first time that Birkenstock has encouraged brides to consider donning a pair of these practical sandals at their wedding, though; the brand previously claimed its shoes were perfect for both ‘rustic outdoor nupitals’ and ‘relaxed city ceremonies.’

There’s even official down-the-aisle style guidance on its website, including advice for pairing them with glam gowns and matching with bridesmaids.

It advises: ‘For a bridal sandal that makes a statement, our Big Buckle collection provides a bold and modern twist, giving your wedding day outfit an effortless, fashion-forward finish.

‘White and metallic finishes are a natural choice for brides, adding a light, effortless elegance beneath all kinds of wedding dresses, from silk slips to lace gowns.’

What are the Bridal Birkenstocks about?

According to Oriona Robb, founder and creative director of an eponymous style academy, Bridal Birkenstocks signify a key shift in how people dress for significant moments in their lives, such as weddings.

‘Weddings have always balanced personal expression with tradition,’ she tells Metro. ‘Choosing something like Birkenstocks reflects a desire for comfort without compromising on style.’

Naturally, it’s partly driven by practicality, particularly for celebrations that can last all day. But it also reflects an element of confidence, as well as a new attitude towards what’s considered ‘bridal’.

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‘The wedding heel isn’t disappearing entirely, but brides are increasingly seeking options that feel true to their lifestyle and personal aesthetic,’ Oriona adds.

‘Comfort, individuality, and the broader move in fashion towards less formal, more wearable pieces are all contributing to this trend.’

Zoe Burke, leading wedding expert and head of brand at Bridebook, reckons there’s also an age element to this trend, given a third of all current engaged couples are Gen Z.

She tells Metro: ‘They’re a generation who don’t follow tradition just for the sake of it. Comfort, authenticity and personal style come first – and that’s exactly why Bridal Birkenstocks are having a moment.

‘Bridal fashion has been flirting with comfort for years – first it was white Converse, then the Bridal Croc, so the Bridal Birks fit right into that elevated casual vibe that Gen Zs love.

‘With metallic leathers, custom embellishments, or even veils clipped to the straps, they can be both playful and chic.’

We all know that wedding days can be long, too. There’s plenty of standing around and potentially hours of dancing, which is where a comfortable shoe can be a godsend — whether that means a casual sandal or a slightly more formal flat pump.

‘No matter how well-heeled you are, no one’s feet are feeling fabulous by dessert in a traditional wedding shoe,’ Zoe adds. ‘Feet that don’t hurt mean smiles that stay real.’

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