Always-buzzing Abbot Kinney may not be the über-bohemian boulevard that it once was, but Birkenstock may bring the stylish stretch closer to its free-wheeling roots. After opening its first U.S. store in New York last fall, the German footwear brand that sparked the ugly-chic sandal trend (and countless versions from luxury labels like Céline, Prada, Marni, and more) is officially opening its first West Coast outpost in Venice just in time for summer — not that it isn't toe-baring season during our other three "seasons."
Though an exact opening date has yet to be set, the 245-year-old brand is taking over the space formerly occupied by Tortoise. (It's worth noting that there are Birkenstock-approved independent retailers bearing the brand's name in Sherman Oaks and on West Third Street.) Once open, comfort-seeking footwear fiends can expect to find the company's full range of Birks for women, men, and children ($30 and up for kids, $80 and up for grown-ups), including bestselling open-air styles like the Arizona, Giza, Madrid, and Cairo alongside its closed-toe sneakers, boots, and accessories.
Founded in 1774, the company has been taking strides to stake a claim in the fashion world, as seen in its latest collaboration with Rick Owens and Valentino, to name a few.
See visual proof of the forthcoming shop below and stay tuned for more.
Birkenstock, 1208 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice, 90291
