The “ugly” shoe
Recently I purchased a pair of Dansko boots from Nordstrom during their annual anniversary sale.
Dansko shoes are synonymous with comfort and durability. Known for their clogs, they are often worn by teachers, doctors and those in the hospitality industry.
They are not a brand I expected to encounter at Nordstrom, and they were not the only shoe of it’s kind I thought about buying that day.
Teva, Uggs, Crocs and Birkenstocks are top selling brands at Nordstrom and can be considered major players in the “ugly shoe” trend. However, the trend could likely be attributed to the debut of the Tabi shoe by Maison Margiela in 1989.
This shoe, a polarizing shoe if ever there was one, has often been described as “ugly chic” and “camel toe” couture.
Almost three decades after its debut, the Tabi shoe is a successful icon of the label and is still seen on the most fashion forward feet.
The influence of that one shoe and the “ugly shoe” trend was evident on the 2023 runways. Loewe presented platform clogs and Fendi’s cushion-y slides can be seen on plenty of celebrities this summer.
Balenciaga’s collaboration with Crocs was a huge success and Kanye West’s Yeezy shoes have only risen in value since Adidas severed ties with the anit-semitic artist.
Personally, I am now the proud owner of Birkenstocks, Tevas (just bought another pair!,) multiple clogs, and now, Dansko. (I never thought I’d write that sentence.)
More and more my closet heels are being replaced with closet comforts.
Working as a Wardrobe Stylist, it’s important to look good. I like to look good. But it’s also important to feel good. No longer can I run to meetings and carry shopping bags while wearing high heels. Now, I can look “good” and feel good, even if my shoes are “ugly.” I’m here for that.
