The Case For Clogs

The term clog is, unfortunately, ridden with closed-off connotations. It’s what happens to your sinuses in the winter; it can cause your skin to break out; it’s the image of bumper-to-bumper traffic on the freeway at 5 p.m. There’s a sense of limit and restriction wrapped up in the word — but we don’t think that’s fair. Because clog shoes, aesthetically speaking, do the exact opposite.

What are clogs?

Dating back centuries, clog shoes were first crafted from wood and were popularized in the Netherlands. Complete with a thick sole and closed-toe silhouette, it was the shoe of the working class, designed for durability amid labour-intensive tasks. Generations of human innovation later, the humble footwear style remains pretty true to its original design. But these days, it’s also a tool for outfit creativity.

In the oft-confusing style landscape of 2024, clog shoes strike a highly-coveted balance between kind of ugly and very cool. They’re durable and comfy but risk-taking and playful. Born out of a utilitarian demand, they deliver on their promise: structure, coziness and simplicity. But more and more, they’re also a staple of experimental styling.

Where have we seen clog shoes?

For starters, they’ve been clomping down the runways for the past few seasons. Chloé arguably ignited the most recent frenzy with its viral Fall 2024 show, which featured mule clogs with studded detailing. Presented alongside Boho ruffled dresses and gauzy fabrics, the hardened footwear style was given a subversive spin.

Then, across the Spring 2025 fashion month, clogs were centred in the zeitgeist yet again. Proenza Schouler’s runway showcased with Sorel’s array of water-proof chunky shoes. Simone Rocha presented its own take with bedazzled iterations. Peter Do offered sleek black versions alongside edgy tattered sets.

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Proenza Schouler Spring 2025, Photography courtesy of launchmetrics.com/spotlight

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Each time a model walks down the catwalk wearing the cumbersome shoe with a flowy dress or sexy separate, the possibilities for clogs open up. And in late October, when Bella Hadid was spotted in a pair of the Proenza Schouler Sorels, the internet’s fascination with the style only grew.

How to wear clog shoes now

In all their runway visibility, clogs have become a staple of street fashion. With a low-cut silhouette, they pair perfectly with statement-making pants like barrel jeans. They can be flawlessly fashioned alongside colourful tights, and they’re the perfect base for scrunched up socks.

Available in an array of colours, materials and silhouettes, the clog shoes of today are much more than clunky wooden workwear. Regardless of your aesthetic preferences, there’s a clog out there for you. Below, FASHION has curated the best ones on the market.

The coolest clog shoes to shop now

Most viral

Sorel x Proenza Schouler Caribou clog

Are these the Bella Hadid-approved Caribou mules? Yes, yes they are. Pictured here in classic black with a vibrant hit of yellow, these water-proof shoes are ideal for rainy fall outings. Alongside the utilitarian function, their subtle shine gives them a polished finish.

Most elevated

Everlane wooden Puffa clog

If you’re looking to indulge in some suede footwear, Everlane’s cocoa brown clogs are the perfect place to start. The upper is made with premium leather, while the heel is crafted from stained wood. With a pointed-up toe silhouette, this design nods back to the shoe’s original form for a modern meets timeless finish.

Most playful

Charlotte Stone Loni shoe

Pictured in the seasonal olive green hue, these retro-style clog sling-backs are the ideal blend of going-out glam and walkable durability. Their grip soles are slip-resistant, while the contrast stitching and statement buckle lean into western style codes. If you’re looking for a take that is slightly more traditional, the brand has a similar pair with a wooden sole.

Coziest

Crocs Dylan lined clogs

If you’re searching for comfort, you can’t go wrong with Crocs. The brand’s quirky aesthetic appeal is backed by its reliable wearability, and these clog shoes are no different. Pictured in a burnt-orange brown, they have a retro-leaning aesthetic with warm lining and modern enhanced sole for A+ traction.

Best for everyday

Dr. Martens Zebzag mule sling-backs

Pastels for fall? Don’t knock it until you try it. These light lavender clogs bring brightness to the dark seasons ahead. With the a black durable grip sole and classic yellow Doc Martens stitching, they’re a practical pick that still feels playful.

Warmest

Free People oak clog boots

Stay toasty during winter with these sherpa-adorned boots. Featuring a classic wooden heel, statement studs and a suede upper, they are the ideal footwear choice for blustery days outdoors. Plus, the contrast white stitching keeps them feeling fresh.

Most versatile

Dansko Cordovan cabrio clog

With these clogs, what you see is what you get: quality, durability and just the right amount of shine. Pictured in a glazed reddish brown, they are utilitarian-minded with a reinforced toe box and a contoured footbed. The back strap keeps your foot supported, while the dip in the silhouette leaves space for you to incorporate playful socks.

Most splurge-worthy

Chloé Jeannette leather clog mule

With a dramatic wooden heel and a studded cowhide upper, these heeled clogs reimagine Chloé’s signature feminine aesthetic with vintage hardware accents. Finished with a gold-tone buckle, the slip-on design is a treat-yourself choice that lets you stand a little taller.