With a prime view of Pier 70, beloved San Francisco clog brand Bryr is getting a fresh start.
There has been a long hard clog drought in San Francisco since Bryr closed the doors to its Dogpatch store in March of 2020. But as of last week, the clomp-clomp of shoppers trying on sturdy-slash-stunning handmade shoes can be heard once again. Located down the block from the original teensy shop sits the brand's new larger, light-filled space. Yes, its already knocking people's socks off…not a problem for clog-heads.
Warm and inviting, the airy loft-like space is filled with a rainbow's assortment of clogs—platforms, sandals, block heels, and more. It may have taken several years to get here, but the labor of love was worth the wait.
Indeed, from the moment Bryr founder and chief clog maker Isobel Schofield laid eyes on the old dilapidated building at the corner of 22nd and Illinois streets, she had a vision, one that included knocking out walls, adding windows and doors, and a whole lot more. Unlike her previous HQ, this location combines a larger retail space witha studio/manufacturing area for her small and mighty team of nine.
Bryr founder Isobel Schofield taking in the light at her new Dogpatch store while sporting a pair of her favorite Zoe platforms. (Kara Brodgesell)
"I wanted the space to feel really welcoming and comfortable. Our building is an industrial space with cement floors and brick columns. To add warmth, I brought in warm neutrals and soft textures. My inspiration board was a lot of homes that felt really calm and cozy. I kept going back to the Danish word hygge.
"Plus, I wanted the clog try-on area to be compact enough where you might pick up a conversation with another customer and share ideas on which clogs to pick. One of my favorite design details: the French windows we installed in the old loading dock. In warmer months, we'll be able to open them to let the breeze from the ocean in. At sunset, the views are so beautiful and inspiring, and we're looking forward to having some evening events over the next few months," Schofield explains.
Along with a change of address, customers will be treated to a truly fresh shopping experience. Bryr's previous made-to-order model has given way to fully stocked shelves. (Don't worry, you can still go the DIY route if you prefer.)
Schofield can hardly contain herself: "I'm so excited for people to try on all our new designs! When we closed back in 2020, our line was so different. We had the high heel and mid heel. We've evolved so much since then, launching platforms, worker clogs, and block heels." Bryr has also added monochrome styles to the mix.
(Kara Brodgesell)
"It brings a lot of joy to me personally seeing people light up when they try on our clogs, check themselves out, call out how comfortable and cute they are. This is what it's all about for any designer and maker," she adds.
Not sure where to start? Have what she's having. Naturally, she loves all her babies but these are Schofield's personal top four: Zoe, Worker, Daphne, and Norma. Also, don't miss the super secret menu where you can hunt —iPad style—for in-stock one-off styles by size.
P.S. Brides-to-be, mark your calendars for the weekend of March 30th for a special bridal party weekend filled with special occasion clogs, local bridal vendors, and cocktails.
// Bryr is open Wednesdays through Saturdays, and on Sundays as of March 19th;1080 Illinois St. (Dogpatch), bryrstudio.com.
(Kara Brodgesell)
