What began as a seemingly one-off sneaker experiment has evolved into a continuing design dialogue. Thibo Denis returns with chapter two of his Birkenstock 1774 project, now available at 1774.com and selected global retailers. More than a fleeting drop, the release cements Denis’ role as the brand’s first guest designer—redefining contemporary footwear design through heritage, function, and urban versatility.
Thibo Denis x Birkenstock: chapter two of Ensemble 1774
The Thibo Denis x Birkenstock partnership operates under Ensemble 1774, a platform inviting visionary creatives to reinterpret the German heritage house’s codes. Following the initial launch last October, chapter two revisits the three original silhouettes—Goerlitz, Uerzell, and Stroedt—this time refreshed in new materials and grounded colorways.
Rather than following the typical hype-driven collaboration formula, this project unfolds in chapters, building a cohesive narrative around what the brand describes as “climbing the city”—a metaphor for navigating urban life with confidence and freedom. Denis translates this idea into tactile forms and warm tones that merge practicality with elevated aesthetics.
Footwear design that climbs the city
At the center of the collection is the Goerlitz, defined by amplified proportions, a dual-strap construction, chunky rope laces, and suede uppers in bordeaux and taupe. It channels a hybrid spirit—part retro hiking shoe, part Y2K skate sneaker—while remaining unmistakably Birkenstock.
The Uerzell reimagines the mule as a sculptural slip-on with a visible cork midsole, now rendered in refined black suede. Meanwhile, the Stroedt, a low-profile lace-up first introduced in leather, returns in maroon and taupe suede for a softer, more tactile finish.
Each silhouette incorporates Birkenstock’s signature Blue Footbed—a removable, anatomically shaped insole rooted in the brand’s orthopedic tradition—alongside the iconic bone-pattern outsole and the embossed 1774 emblem in blue.
With more than 15 years of experience spanning Dior, Louis Vuitton, and previous Birkenstock collaborations, Denis brings technical precision and contemporary edge to the project. Chapter two reinforces that this is not merely a collaboration, but an evolving exploration of modern craftsmanship—where heritage meets forward-thinking footwear design.
Courtesy of BIRKENSTOCK 1774
