- Shoe styles like Uggs, Birkenstocks and Crocs have now become part of mainstream fashion.
- The change was ushered by the rise of fast fashion, the popularity of athleisure wear, and the more relaxed dress sense of the pandemic.
- These shoes also tend to have warm lining, which makes them the preferred winter style.
When shoes like Crocs and Uggs first became popular, mainstream fashion they were highly frowned upon by style-conscious types.
These shoe styles' thick and bulky aesthetic did not sit well with fashion-forward people who favoured sleek and sometimes uncomfortable shoes instead.
Birkenstocks were associated with a particular type of person who existed on the fringes of mainstream society and fashion.
The rise of fast fashion, the popularity of athleisure wear, and the more relaxed dress sense of the pandemic have brought shoe styles like Uggs, Birkenstocks and Crocs to mainstream fashion.
These brands began with one shoe style and have since grown to include more styles in their ranges, including fleece-lined styles that feel like a Godsend in winter.
The team at Uggs believes these shoes are an excellent winter choice because they allow you to bridge the gap between formal and casual footwear easily.
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Check out this winter style guide for how to style old and new versions of shoes from these brands.
1. Classic and Timeless
Nothing beats the charm of classic and timeless styles in winter fashion. This aesthetic focuses on creating a sophisticated and polished look that withstands the test of time.
According to the team at Crocs, the key to achieving this style is to invest in high-quality pieces that exude elegance. Think tailored coats, cashmere sweaters, and well-fitted trousers. Colours like black, camel, navy, and grey work wonderfully in this style, giving you a refined and sophisticated appearance.
To add a touch of luxury, accessorize with a statement scarf, leather gloves, and a structured handbag.
Crocs advises wearing a pair of Mega Crush clogs with looks in this style to add some height to your outfit, while UGG recommends their men's Ascot style, which looks similar to a pair of loafers and comes with a durable rubber sole so it can be worn outside the home.
This styling trick can also add some drama that'll take your outfit to the next level.
2. Cozy and Casual
If you prefer a more relaxed and laid-back winter style, the cosy and casual chic look is perfect for you.
This style embraces the comfort of chunky knits, oversized sweaters, and relaxed silhouettes. Embrace the art of layering by pairing a cosy sweater with a plaid shirt or a turtleneck under a puffer vest.
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Combine your cosy knits with skinny jeans or leggings for a balanced look. This style is ideal for everyday wear, weekend outings, or coffee dates, where comfort and style go hand in hand.
Boot and platform styles from the brands mentioned above go well with this look and add something extra by adding height.
3. Edgy and Bold
The edgy and bold aesthetic is the way to go for those who want to make a fashion statement even in the coldest of winters.
Embrace your inner fashion rebel and experiment with unexpected combinations and unconventional outerwear choices. Leather jackets, faux fur coats, and shearling-lined aviator jackets are essential for this style.
Mix and match textures, such as pairing a sequined top with distressed jeans or a velvet skirt with a studded leather jacket.
Add a pop of colour with vibrant accessories like a bold beanie or a statement scarf.
Men looking to pull off this aesthetic can also try the Neumel boot from UGG, famed for its chukka silhouette.
Fashion is about expressing yourself through clothing, and it's easy to fall into a rut, especially during winter. Take the risk, and challenge yourself by adding a pair of these shoe styles to your wardrobe.