It’s All About the ‘Ugly’ Shoe This Season

If someone called your shoes "ugly," you'd probably be pretty offended, right? But what if they're so ugly that they're cute? That concept is one of the biggest trends of the upcoming season. Folks are pairing their fashion-forward 'fits, everyday ensembles, and even dressier looks with shoes previously considered "ugly," such as Crocs, chunky "dad" sneakers, mesh flats, and colorful bowling shoes.

This trend follows stylist Allison Bornstein's "Wrong Shoe Theory" — opting for a shoe that doesn't make sense on paper but ends up working really well in practice. By choosing a shoe that doesn't conventionally go with an outfit, you're making a conscious style choice and expressing your personality through clothes and accessories. It makes getting dressed a lot more fun. Plus, you don't need to buy an entirely new wardrobe to get in on the trend. Below are some of our favorite "ugly" shoes and the style stars that lend inspiration.

1. Dad Sneakers

Chunky kicks aren't going anywhere. In fact, they were bigger than ever on "It" girls outside the fall/winter 2024 runways. Channel a Midwestern dad with your footwear choice and then pair the sneakers with a more feminine outfit for a fresh take on the trend.

Shop the trend:

• New Balance 530 Sneakers
• Asics Gel-Kayano 14 Sneakers
• Nike V2K Run Shoes

2. Clogs

Birkenstock Boston clogs were huge last fall, and it seems the trend isn't going anywhere. Instead, it's expanding into all types of clogs — and we can't say we're upset about it. These are incredibly comfortable shoes, and they don't require a wardrobe makeover to wear. Slip on some clogs with your favorite jeans or as a way to make dressy slacks a bit more laid-back.

Shop the trend:

• Birkenstock Boston Big Buckle
• Ugg Women's Goldenstar Clog
• Steve Madden Wilderr Taupe Suede

3. Funky Flats

Ballet flats are much different in 2024 than in the early 2000s. This season, the classic leather flat is taking a backseat to funky colors, prints, textures, and materials. Love 'em or hate 'em, mesh flats are everywhere, as are plastic "jelly" versions, animal prints, and metal adornments. The best thing about these flats is they make even the most simple outfit more interesting.

Shop the trend:

• Jeffrey Campbell Netted Flats
• Ganni Brown Metallic Feminine Buckle Ballerinas
• Iro Jelly Flats

4. Bowling Shoes

Like dad kicks, bowling shoes are a type of sneaker (well, outside the bowling alley) that tends to be a little controversial. But we think they're cool with any of fall's fashion trends, from the simple to the bold. They also tend to be easier to style than chunky sneakers because of their low profile. Have some fun this season with all the colorful options on the market.

Shop the trend:

• Gola Elan Sneaker
• Boden Erin Retro Tennis Trainers
• Isabel Marant Beth Perforated Leather Grip-Strap Sneakers

5. Crocs

Crocs get their own category because of the shoes' popularity surge in recent years. No longer are the plastic comfort clogs just for gardening and taking out the trash. Even better, Crocs have expanded their classic clog style into platforms, Mary Janes, and even loafers. The fashionable set is wearing them with everyday outfits — complete with colorful Jibbitz. Our feet have never been happier.

Shop the trend:

• Crocs Classic Clog
• Crocs Classic Mary Jane Clog
• Crocs Stomp Metallic Loafer