The "Ugly" Shoes We Actually Want to Wear
So it’s 2018, and we’re still talking about “ugly” shoes which, if you ask me, means that the microtrend has some serious staying power—and how could it not? After all, what’s more intriguing than an item that’s universally considered to be somewhat unappealing to the eye yet is simultaneously highly embraced and celebrated at the same time?
Such is definitely the case with the three shoe styles we’re calling out today. From clunky to dad-inspired to super-scrunched, they’re the shoes we simply can’t help but love, and neither can our favorite street style stars. See them in action below and shop our favorite versions of each trend while you’re at it.
1. Super-Slouchy Boots
While when it comes to boots, we typically consider sleek to be the main goal, as of late, the less polished but definitely more intriguing slouchy boot has been top of mind.
Shop our picks:
2. Dad Sneakers
Simply the name "Dad sneakers" should be enough to keep us away, but for some reason, we can't help but lust over the constant stream of inspo we're seeing on not only street style stars but models and celebs as well.
Shop our picks:
3. Clunky Ankle Boots
Remember what we said about typically favoring sleek boots? Well, the new wave of lug-soled, utilitarian-inspired ankle boots is the second shoe style in this roundup to make us want to change our ways.
Shop our picks:
Since starting as an intern back in 2013, Nicole Akhtarzad Eshaghpour has held several roles here at Who What Wear, and she is currently Editor-at-Large. It was a less expected route, seeing as she was graduating from business school at USC when this all began, but it has turned out to be the best one for her. Fast-forward to 2024, and she's moved to NYC from her hometown of Beverly Hills and spends her workdays a little differently from when she was an intern starting out. Currently, she focuses on a weekly mélange of shopping content. As far as her personal style goes, she's largely drawn to classic pieces and neutral basics but will always make an exception for something colorful, printed, or bejeweled as long as it's deemed worthy enough. After all, the only thing she loves more than a good party is dressing up for one. On weekdays, she can usually be found at home eating something delicious for dinner and trying to force her husband to watch Summer House.
-
The Sneaker Color Trend Everyone With Expensive Taste Is Buying
Including Lily Collins.
By Allyson Payer
-
I Want a Rich-Looking Wardrobe—33 Perfect Picks From Nordstrom's (Early) Black Friday Sale
Get a head start with these chic gems.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
The Rich-Looking Sneaker Trend That's Set to Dominate in 2025
Wealth's the word.
By Anna LaPlaca
-
I Already Know This Is Going to Be the Biggest Sneaker Trend of 2025
It's suddenly everywhere.
By Maxine Eggenberger
-
J.Lo Wore the Brand-New Uggs That'll Go Viral and Sell Out By December 1—Guaranteed
Don't say I didn't warn you.
By Eliza Huber
-
Zoë Kravitz Just Wore the One Winter Boot Trend That Every Chic Celeb Agrees On
Dakota Johnson and Sofia Richie are also fans.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
Katie Holmes Just Wore the Elegant Boot Color New Yorkers Are Abandoning Black For
Take note.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
Lily Allen Just Wore the Sellout Trending Sneakers Fashion People Are Sourcing Through Expert Shoppers
Everyone wants a pair.
By Natalie Munro