In Florence’s 16th century Torrigiani Gardens – Europe’s largest privately owned green space – Birkenstock chose to host a grand picnic to present its SS19 collection.

As a Michel Gaubert-composed soundscape fed from the speakers, models circled the garden’s fountain in neutral clothing that moved in harmony with the brand’s latest footwear offering. Think tunics, hoodies and loose fitting trousers – all very befitting of the tranquil setting.

But this is Birkenstock, where footwear is king. This season, the brand’s staple designs appeared reworked with subtle and progressive nuances: straps rendered in metallics, midsoles crafted from cork, and silhouettes shifted into futuristic dimensions. Lace-ups, clogs, moccasins, desert boots and, of course, the brand’s iconic slip-ons all featured. Killer footwear with a sarnie, that’s our kind of picnic.