[FASHUN] Photographer Yumna Al-Arashi Makes Tevas Look Good

The hierarchy of socially acceptable comfort footwear is as follows: Fuzzy Celine slides > Birkenstocks > Tevas > Crocs. But after announcing their crunchy collaboration with Opening Ceremony (dropping May 23), Teva is making a major play for that #1 orthopedic-chic spot. What was once just reserved for Berkeley hippies, eccentric art teachers, and un-ironic elderly hoarders covered in cat hair and sporting hair curlers, is now a full-blown footwear phenomenon as infuriatingly pervasive and undeniably comfortable as Normcore’s annoyingly innocuous uniform of crotchy khakis and insideout logo tees. Remember those commercials where the dude in the good mood is all “Gellin’ like Magellan?” Well, I’m pretty sure that’s the direction we’re headed as a society — la-z-boys for our feet.

In celebration of the rise of #UrbanGranola, Teva has partnered with a curated selection of artists on a series of ‘Original Adventure’ films. Focused on capturing the brand’s spirit of adventure and showcasing the iconic Teva sandal in its natural habitat (cue Steve Erwin voice), photographer Yumna Al-Arashi takes us on a journey through scenic desert terrain, modeling the hippie-chicness of a pair of Tevas styled with floral pants and Navajo blankets. Watch the short film and read our Q&A with Yumna below.

1. How did you get involved with Teva Originals?

Yumna: The lovely folks at Teva reached out to me to see if I’d want to get involved with making an adventurous video with them and I was totally down.

2. What else do you predict, culturally or fashion-wise, making a Tevas-esque come back?

There are so many things making come backs, right now in the shoe game it’s Tevas and Birkenstocks everywhere. I think people are just realizing that the comfort pieces of their childhood were actually legit and they want them back!

3. What are your five travel essentials?

My fifth generation classic iPod (I’ll never let it go)
An underwater disposable camera
A book, pen and paper
Moisturizer and conditioner
Socks and underwear, because, duh.

4. Favorite impromptu weekend getaway?

Anywhere I’ve never been before! Spontaneity is my favorite part of a getaway.

5. Are you more of an OCD planner or a free-spirit?

Free-spirit, definitely.

6. What does your camera allow you to see that you wouldn’t with your bare eyes?

Nothing at all. My camera is just my tool, it allows me to carry out all my visions.

7. Is photography better at exposing the truth or telling lies?

Both. It’s a double edged sword. I think that’s what I learned a lot when I got into journalism. Photographs are powerful in telling both lies and truths, and I think that’s why it has become so popular.