The Clog Comeback

By Rebecca Dersh

A new trend emerging this season may not be so new for those of you fashionistas who grew up during the 1970s. Clogs, the once not-so-popular shoes, are now being made fashionable again thanks to the genius behind Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld. There was a strong presence of clogs in Chanel’s Spring/Summer 2010 Runway Show. Classic Chanel looks, such as tweed suits and little black dresses, were paired with beautifully designed high-heeled clogs. Ever since, the clog trend has just continued to explode.

Though we now consider clogs fashionable footwear, this was not always the case. Initially, only hard labor workers wore clogs, in order to protect their feet. In particular, during the Industrial Revolution, clogs were worn due to their sensibility and comfort. Yet centuries later, the clog quickly became a trend in the 1970s when Swedish music group ABBA, was seen performing in the wooden footwear. From then on, clogs, for the first time ever, were considered stylish.

Now the comeback of the clog may come to a shock to some, and understandably so. Yet once exposed to the grand variety of clogs this season, one will understand this rising trend. Clogs are now being worn in new and refreshing ways, due to the younger generation of women who didn’t get to experience the fashions of the 1970s and 1980s. Now, clogs are designed in many forms and are noticeably more edgy, due in part to the extra inches added to the once short heel. Additionally, the platform, along with designs and embellishments that never before have been seen on clogs, assists in giving them a fashion-forward look.

Style icons like Sarah Jessica Parker and Chloe Sevigny are just some of the celebrities that have recently been spotted wearing clogs. Follow in their footsteps by pairing your clogs with light summer dresses, linen shorts or even tights for winter. Due to the diversity of clogs this season, they really can be worn with almost everything. Just be sure to wear something fairly light and minimal in order to balance out the heaviness of the clog. This will help create a whimsical, feminine look while still wearing such a chunky shoe.

Of course, for those of you denim lovers, feel free to wear your clogs with jeans. Skinny jeans are great, as they will instantly draw attention to your shoes. Yet for those of you who seek a return to groovier times, wear your clogs with flared wide-leg jeans. Also, for those of you young ladies who can pull the look off, wear your denim short shorts with your clogs during the hotter seasons. This will help add structure to a casual daytime outfit. Nevertheless, no matter what kind of denim you prefer, clogs will always do the trick!

Clogs really are bigger and better in 2010. Never before have we seen such a wide range of looks. There now exists everything from sandal versions to boot versions of clogs. Women can now choose from a variety of clogs to decide which one reflects their personal style. Now as we all know, trends come and go. Yet the clog trend has proven that it is here to stay.