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The Barock Universe

Born from my deep passion for Japanese culture, Barock explores a space where fashion becomes a language — a balance between tradition and modernity. The brand is dedicated to creating pieces that respect the body, support natural movement, and celebrate effortless elegance.

The Barock Concept: the split‑toe revolution

At the heart of my creations lies the Tabi concept, inspired by traditional Japanese Jikatabi. This split‑toe design is more than an aesthetic signature — it is a true philosophy of movement.

The biomechanical benefits of Tabi shoes

By freeing the big toe, Barock shoes help to:

• support the foot’s natural motion

• strengthen intrinsic muscles

• improve grounding and posture

• relieve certain conditions such as hallux valgus

Each model — PARIS, TOKYO, AMSTERDAM, PORTO — features a 3 cm heel, designed to respect the natural curvature of the spine.

A unique sensory experience

Wearing Barock shoes is like rediscovering the pleasure of walking barefoot, with the refinement and protection of a tailor‑made leather glove. It offers your body a stable foundation, allowing your mind to move freely.

Who am I?

I am Barbara Van Amerongen, founder of Barock — a designer and pattern‑maker driven by a simple conviction: no one should ever have to choose between beauty and well‑being. My work is rooted in a love for timeless design, the history of textiles, and distant cultures, combined with the latest advances in biomechanics.

From this meeting of heritage and innovation emerged my vision of the ideal shoe: a piece that respects the body, follows the natural motion of the foot, and reveals each person’s innate elegance.

A sustainable commitment & exceptional craftsmanship

Barock shoes are designed in France and handcrafted in  workshops in Portugal renowned for their expertise and attention to detail.

Carefully selected materials

• full‑grain leather

• eco‑friendly microfibre lining

• responsible sourcing

• small‑batch production

Choosing Barock means embracing footwear that combines elegance, freedom, and biomechanical comfort.

Origin of Jikatabi

Born in the early 20th century, Jikatabi are traditional Japanese shoes with a unique design: the separation of the big toe and the following.

Invented by Tokujiro Ishibashi, the brother of the founder of Bridgestone, the Jikatabi were initially intended for manual workers such as farmers, laborers of all kinds, and rickshaw pullers. Their design offered great flexibility and excellent grip on uneven ground.

Wrongly associated with ninjas in popular culture, these minimalist shoes were actually inspired by the Tabi. Socks with the same characteristics allow them to be worn over Geta or Zōri, Japanese sandals, a type of flip-flop with a sole made of wood or rice straw. The Tabi first appeared on the feet of the Japanese in the 15th century.