2025 has proven to be a surprising year in many aspects, especially in the realm of fashion. At a recent film premiere in London, actress Rosamund Pike made a bold statement with her intriguing outfit choice, featuring a striking scarlet evening gown accented by footwear reminiscent of Mr. Tumnus, crafted by designer Simone Rocha.

Simone Rocha, an Irish designer, has gained a reputation for creating unconventional fashion pieces. While the recent interest in space-themed fashion might suggest a turn towards the extraordinary, the focus here is on another phenomenon altogether—unconventional footwear, frequently dubbed ‘ugly shoes’.

The current trend of unique footwear choices recalls the iconic moments from the show Sex and the City, particularly the beloved character Carrie Bradshaw. However, it’s not her coveted Manolo Blahniks that have drawn attention recently, but rather Sarah Jessica Parker’s recent choice to don Uggs—specifically a new platform clog style that epitomizes the so-called ugly shoe craze.

Manolo Blahnik, known for his legendary craftsmanship and taste, might be taken aback by this shift in trends, especially since he has often criticized flats as less than appealing. The emergence of clogs, slippers, and other unconventional footwear has ignited discussions about the ever-designated ‘ugly shoe’ trend.

Alongside Parker and Pike, other celebrities like Zendaya and Heidi Klum have been spotted in equally unconventional footwear choices like Birkenstocks and Crocs. This juxtaposition of beauty and unconventional footwear captures the essence of this growing trend among fashion-savvy individuals.

The term ‘man-repeller fashion’, coined by blogger Leandra Medine in 2010, serves to describe styles that prioritize comfort and personal preference over traditional attractiveness. The ugly shoe trend aptly fits into this category, challenging conventional ideals of beauty in fashion.

Personally, my affinity for ugly shoes dates back to childhood, shaped by my mother’s belief in selecting comfortable footwear. Today, I possess a diverse collection of shoes that prioritize comfort over aesthetics, reminiscent of styles suited for adventures in fantastical realms.

Despite my openness to these trends, even I find myself hesitant about the extreme statements represented by Parker’s and Pike’s choices. The much-anticipated collaboration between Crocs and Swarovski brings another layer of fascination—projected prices soar as high as £1,200, enticing those who dare to embrace the unusual.

The ugly shoe trend can be attributed to a broader cultural acceptance, where perceived ‘bad taste’ gains traction in the fashion world. Designers today often embrace imperfections and quirks as a form of artistic expression.

In a world where mundane styles prevail, ugly shoes emerge as a breath of fresh air, allowing individuals to showcase their unique style. Moreover, this trend reflects a nonchalant attitude toward fashion norms, with pool slides and slippers integrated into everyday wardrobes.

This inherent contradiction is indicative of a larger cultural shift, where high fashion meets everyday comfort. The luxurious embellishments on utilitarian designs, like the Swarovski Crocs, reveal an intriguing blend of aesthetics that invites further exploration of this evolving fashion landscape.

Ultimately, the question remains: will you embrace the trend of ugly shoes, or will you refuse to indulge in this curious fashion revolution? The choice lies in your personal style and attitude toward the ever-changing—sometimes perplexing—fashion world.

@annagmurphy