The "Ugly" Shoes We Actually Want to Wear

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(Image credit: Christian Vierig/Getty Images)

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.

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See them in action:
(Image credit: Acielle/Style du Monde)

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

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See them in action:
(Image credit: Vanni Bassetti/Getty Images)

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.

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See them in action:
(Image credit: Acielle/Style du Monde)

Shop our picks:

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Editor-at-Large

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.