Fashion Trends and the Popularity of Crocs

From being neglected because of their appearance to being welcomed as a fashion trend, the popularity of Crocs has skyrocketed in recent years. This niche footwear often elicits strong reactions, ranging from amusement to outright disdain. While once the subject of ridicule, Crocs has not only endured but thrived, becoming a surprisingly ubiquitous footwear choice. Let’s find out more about these controversial Crocs, how they became fashion trends and the popularity of Crocs

Crocs – The breakthrough into the mainstream

Established in 2002, Crocs started as functional footwear over style. For almost twenty years, Crocs has been an underrated footwear brand. The shoes were originally launched as boat shoes-yes, boat, not garden. And despite their strange appearance, they quickly became popular because of their comfort and functionality more in the garden and at work than on the street.

Nonetheless, the clogs slowly became increasingly popular, especially for gardening and other professional groups (medical professionals, for example). But the shoes remained in the niche only. Of course, there were one or two who dared to wear the clogs on the street, but the group remained manageable because this drew disapproving and mocking looks.

But the game has turned the table once the pandemic hit. People tend to try wearing one because no one will judge them because of their look and are immediately hooked by its amazing comfort and versatility. Rather than taking time wearing complicated footwear, they can easily slip on and off the Crocs. For instance, Crocs became famous for its convenience.

Taking this chance, Crocs has been collating and re-leasing numerous limited editions to enhance the overall look of the product. By shaking hands with big brand names, Crocs has successfully built a positive brand image and gathered millions of new users every year since 2020.

Fashion Trends Evolution And Crocs

However, Crocs’ early success was not without its critics. Many in the fashion industry dismissed them as aesthetically challenged, even bordering on ugly. Their bulky shape and distinctive perforations were seen as a fashion faux pas. Yet, Crocs’ story is one of remarkable resilience and strategic reinvention. A turning point came with collaborations with high-fashion designers and endorsements from celebrities and social media influencers. These partnerships helped to subtly shift public perception, showcasing Crocs in unexpected and sometimes stylish contexts.

The Beginnings in The Fashion World

For a few years, “ugly shoes” were around, but relatively unnoticed. In the fashion world, they made their first media appearance in 2016 at London Fashion Week. At the show Christopher Kane, dressed his models in specially designed classic clogs with a tie-dye look. With “Jibbitz” pins, the table turns quickly and we can decorate it to our Crocs as we want. Shortly after, Balenciaga collaborated with Crocs. In 2017, they showed their pink and yellow 10 cm platform Crocs at Paris Fashion Week. Up until then, Crocs had been many things: practical, comfortable, unbreakable, and ugly. Balenciaga changed that, and the first fashionistas wore the shoes on the street after the fashion show. However, the shoes were only mega cool in small circles at the time, but it was a start.

Let’s check out some special designs of Crocs that show the brand’s effort in terms of fashion.

Siren Clog: The Heeled Croc

Many people are fascinated by the idea of adding chunky heels to the original Crocs. The Siren Clogs, also known as High-sole Clogs. Not only does it ensure a high-fashion compliment, but it also provides comfort to the barefoot. None of the heels modules can, making Crocs the black sheep of the footwear community. The birth of Siren Clogs also marks big miles in Crocs since its breakthrough of the flat shoes-only look.

Mega Crush Clog: The Edgy Croc

They have the same general design as the original Crocs, but they have a platform and an overall edgier vibe. With platforms of about two inches and rubber soles, they are grippier than the rest of the designs. There is no doubt this model will boost users’ security with its sturdy base.

Dylan Clog: The Mule Croc

Crocs have come a long way from their originals. The fully covered upper provides a professional appearance. Who can tell they are “Crocs” when you wear them on the street? Although they are a departure from the original look, they offer the same amount of comfort. They fit perfectly into this relaxed aesthetic.

Echo Clog: Stylish and Special 

The Echo Collection is for those who want comfort without compromising their look. This fully molded clog is anything but conformist, with bold sculpting and sports inspiration that keeps streetwear at its core. At first glance, they will look similar to Yeezy and be compared a lot. But most people agree the Echo ones are more comfortable and affordable than the Yeezy, making them a brighter choice.

Does The Popularity Of Crocs Have a Cultural Impact? 

Easily seen, Crocs are now available in the wardrobes of every age group, from kids to teenagers and adults. It would be lying if we said Crocs is unpopular. Not only do they remain casual footwear, but with continuous innovative effort, Crocs can perfectly match certain areas with specific requests. Not like suddenly involving so many fashion trends, contributed a big part to the popularity of Crocs.

In addition, Croc’s smart marketing strategy is working with celebrities and big brand names.  Moreover, the rise of DIY customization further fueled their popularity. Jibbitz charms, small decorative adornments attached to the Crocs’ perforations, transformed them into a canvas for self-expression. Suddenly, wearers could personalize their Crocs, making them a unique reflection of their style. This customization trend, coupled with the growing popularity of athleisure and a broader cultural shift towards comfort-focused fashion, propelled Crocs into the mainstream.

The brand also constantly releases updated models far less “ugly.” So, in addition to classic clogs, new designs such as platform Crocs, sandals, and boots can be seen on the streets. Over time, more and more people have had to admit that they like Crocs. One of the most famous examples is Victoria Beckham. She once said that she would rather die than ever wear Crocs. A while ago, she wore the huge and crazy MSCHF Crocs.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, Crocs’ journey from ridiculed footwear to a fashion staple is a compelling example of how comfort, functionality, and cultural adaptation can converge to create enduring popularity. While their aesthetic appeal may be controversial, the popularity of Crocs on practicality, versatility, and ability to evolve with fashion trends are undeniable. Crocs have proven that comfort and style are not mutually exclusive, and their continued presence in the fashion world seems assured. They are a testament to the power of embracing individuality and the enduring appeal of a truly comfortable shoe.