It's Settled: This Is the Buzziest Shoe Brand of 2017

Exciting sneaker launches, cool new ankle boots, and chic Italian-made flats—there have been plenty of exciting shoe debuts this year. But which brand managed to get everyone talking in 2017? At Footwear News's 31st annual FN Achievement Awards last night, none other than Birkenstock was dubbed the official Brand of the Year.

So why did the classic brand nab the major honor? Footwear News explained that Birkenstock has "a devoted customer base … [and has been one of the brightest spots in the retail world, appealing to all ages and camps, from suburban teens to street-style stars." While other brands appeal to niche customers, Birkenstock has managed to win over a wide range of shoppers—a winning formula indeed.

Scroll down to shop our favorite Birkenstock shoes.

Next up, shop the J.Crew jacket with over 350 positive reviews

Opening Image: Getty Images

Erin Fitzpatrick
Senior News Editor

Erin got her start as a Who What Wear intern over 12 years ago—back when the site only published a single story per day. (Who What Wear has since increased that number twentyfold.) She graduated magna cum laude from USC, which is how she ended up moving to Los Angeles from her hometown of San Diego. In college, she also interned at Refinery29, where she was promoted to editorial assistant and then assistant editor. After nearly three years at R29, she came back to WWW in 2016, where she currently holds the title of senior news editor (as well as the unofficial title of resident royal expert—in case you haven't noticed her numerous Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton stories). She spends her days trying to incorporate her idols, Anna Wintour and Roger Federer, into as many stories as possible. Outside of work, she loves tennis, classic rock, traveling, and smothering her dog with affection.