The first chapter of the BIRKENSTOCK x ETRO collection arrives exclusively at the V&A Waterfront and online, reimagining one of fashion’s most iconic silhouettes
When heritage meets high fashion, the result is rarely understated. The new BIRKENSTOCK x ETRO collaboration brings together two brands whose histories span centuries, combining German shoemaking expertise with Italian luxury in a collection that celebrates timeless design with a contemporary edge.
First unveiled during ETRO’s Fall/Winter 2026 runway show at Milan Fashion Week, the collaboration has now launched globally. South Africa is among the markets receiving the highly anticipated release, with the exclusive Boston clogarriving from 10 September 2026.
The iconic Boston clog gets an ETRO makeover
For its first collaboration with ETRO, BIRKENSTOCK has chosen its beloved Boston clog as the starting point. First introduced in 1976 and celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2026, the silhouette has become one of the German footwear brand’s most recognisable designs. The decision feels fitting for a company whose shoemaking heritage stretches back to 1774, when the foundations of what would become one of the world’s most influential footwear brands were first laid.
ETRO transforms the classic clog through its unmistakable design language. The Milanese luxury house, founded in 1968by Gerolamo Etro, has built its identity around rich textiles, artisanal craftsmanship and its instantly recognisable paisley motif. Those signatures now appear across the Boston through embroidered detailing, Western-inspired buckles and exclusive Pegasus-branded rivets.
Each pair retains BIRKENSTOCK’s anatomically shaped cork-latex footbed, wrapped in tonal leather for a more elevated finish while preserving the comfort and functionality that have made the brand a global favourite.
The collection also includes the Gizeh sandal, although that style will remain exclusive to selected international markets.
Heritage craftsmanship meets luxury fashion
What makes the collaboration feel authentic is the shared philosophy behind both brands. ETRO has spent decades refining its expressive Italian aesthetic across fashion, accessories, homeware and fragrances, while BIRKENSTOCK has built its reputation around craftsmanship, biomechanics and products designed to support natural movement.
That balance is evident throughout the collection. ETRO’s intricate textures and decorative details complement BIRKENSTOCK’s clean, functional silhouettes rather than overpowering them.
Even the outsole becomes part of the design story, pairing BIRKENSTOCK’s signature bone-pattern tread with ETRO’s iconic paisley motif to create a subtle detail visible with every step.
The colour palette remains understated, featuring taupe, chocolate and natural earth tones, while polished hardware and metallic accents add a contemporary edge that makes the collection feel equally suited to everyday luxury and elevated styling.
Where to buy the BIRKENSTOCK x ETRO collection in South Africa
South African shoppers can shop the first chapter of the collaboration, featuring the Boston clog, from 10 September 2026.
The collection is available exclusively at:
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BIRKENSTOCK V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
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BIRKENSTOCK South Africa online
While this marks the first chapter of the partnership, it won’t be the last. With ETRO continuing to expand its global luxury footprint and BIRKENSTOCK maintaining its commitment to premium European craftsmanship, both brands have confirmed that further releases from the collaboration will be unveiled in the coming months.
