If You’re Still Debating Birkenstocks, This Unexpected Collab Will Definitely Convince You To Buy In

If you thought pairing socks with sandals would be Birkenstock's most ambitious fashion crossover, then you haven't seen the Valentino x Birkenstock collab. The iconic fashion brands unexpectedly teamed up to create two exclusive styles that marry Birkenstock sandals with signature Valentino style. Both sandal designs premiered Jan. 16 during the Valentino Fall/Winter 2019-20 show at Paris Fashion Week Men's, and if you weren't sold on Birkenstocks before, you will be now.

“I chose to make this collaboration with Birkenstock for the same reason people choose Birkenstock every day," said a quote by Pierpaolo Piccioli, Creative Director of Maison Valentino, in a press release. "No matter what you wear, who you are, no matter your gender or social background, no matter your age, your style, no matter if you care about fashion or if you do not, Birkenstock has its own universal language."

Both Arizona sandals from the collab feature Birkenstock's classic buckled shape and rounded, countered footbed, but that's where the similarities end and Valentino takes over. One design is bathed in Valentino red, the Italian fashion house's bright trademark color. The other sandal is black and features Valentino's white VLTN logo on the side.

Black or Valentino red, both sandals looked incredible on the runway styled with thick socks, so you may want to start expanding your sock collection now. Although the sandals were unveiled while walking the Men's 2019 runway, Piccioli's vision of Birkenstock's unisex appeal is reigning supreme — two styles will be available in Valentino's Women's collection, as well.

"I loved the idea of approaching the DNA of our Maison, represented by the individual and intimate world of Couture with something that it is so free and adaptable," Piccioli said in the same press release. "To me, this is the definition of inclusivity.”

Fortunately, you will be able to buy the sandals even if you aren't close to a Valentino or Birkenstock boutique. Besides being carried in select stores by both brands once released, the sandals will be for sale on Valentino's website and Birkenstock's 1774 page. If you just can't wait, click over to Valentino's page to experience the entire Valentino Fall/Winter 2019-20 show (and to swoon over your future comfy, luxury Birkenstocks).