Come Back To You: Birkenstock’s Celebration of Style, Story and Self

Birkenstock’s latest campaign, Come Back To You, is a storytelling journey rooted in personal style and the grounding beauty of being at ease with yourself.

Shot by Dan Carter, the campaign follows four South African creatives and their everyday rituals of ease. Under the hashtag #ComeBackToYou, each story reveals how Birkenstock fits seamlessly into life’s moments, from quiet mornings with tea to reflective walks and afternoons spent with loved ones.

In a world that moves quickly, slowing down is often seen as a luxury. Come Back To You shows that true relief comes from reconnecting with your body, your joy and your authenticity. This is not a pause from life, it is what makes life more vivid.

The four creatives featured are:

Phola Gumede, DJ, content creator and co-founder of Homie.Lover.Friend. She finds comfort in flipping vinyl records, sharing tea with her partner or being surrounded by friends. Her “quirky yet relaxed” style pairs balloon pants, a cosy T-shirt and cardigan with her beloved Birkenstock Bostons. “Feeling authentic and pure,” she says. “I show up as myself in every circumstance.”

Celeste Jacobs, writer, editor and film photographer, reconnects with herself through stillness, slow observation and creativity. She writes without a set goal, plays guitar, notices the way shadows move across a wall and often wears her well-worn Birks while doing so.

Bathandwa Ngwendu, a storyteller known for his cinematic eye, gravitates toward things with intention. Whether it is a perfectly written line, a striking image or a sandal designed to last, he values what stands the test of time. “Birkenstock focuses on what lasts, not on chasing trends,” he says. “That is how I live and create.”

Bee Diamondhead, creative director and costume designer, balances a fast-paced career with mindful rituals. For her, Come Back To You is about the comfort of stepping out of heels and into Birkenstock, taking solo walks and enjoying long baths. “You can lead with authenticity and still shape culture,” she says.

Dan Carter’s photographs bring the campaign’s essence to life. “I live and work in my Birks, and the brand’s dedication to authentic storytelling inspires me,” he says.

The collection includes the Boston in suede, oiled leather, LEVE and shearling, the Arizona in oiled leather, smooth leather, suede and Birkibuc, as well as the Uji and Kyoto Lena styles.

Available online and in Birkenstock stores across South Africa.