A German court ruled that Birkenstocks do not qualify as works of art and are merely practical design items, rejecting the company's claim for copyright protection against copycat versions. The ruling was seen as a missed opportunity for intellectual property protection. Despite initial unpopularity, Birkenstocks gained fame after being worn by Margot Robbie in the Barbie movie and have become a fashionable item over the years. The company continues to fight against knock-offs.