Goodbye, Jelly Shoes—Hello, Chunky Clogs

It seems we can’t escape ugly shoes. First, it was PVC sandals, and now, it’s chunky clogs. Once considered drab and outdated, the rustic style is making a comeback as Gen Z discovers boho chic. My generation’s love for reminiscing about past trends isn’t new. It started with ’90s minimalism and Y2K grunge, and we’ve now reached the 2010s. Fashion is cyclical, so it was only a matter of time before these wooden, leather-bound styles found their way back to center stage. As archival Chloé and vintage Isabel Marant flood my FYP, I’ve taken action to find the chicest, chunkiest, and cloggiest pairs on the market.

While part of me feels this is a warning sign that skinny jeans are just a trend cycle or two away, I’m choosing to ignore that and embrace the playful texture, metallic accents, and free-spirited silhouette of this shoe trend instead. I’ve called on every sub-trend in the clog category, from smooth suede slippers (the Birkenstock Boston Clogs and the Ugg Elea Slip-Ons) to sleek wooden soles with polished leather uppers (ahem, the Chloé Jeannette Shoes). IMO, these bohemian beauties shine when paired with flowy silhouettes, lace-trim detailing, suede jackets, and denim accents.