Along with crop tops, ultra-low-rise jeans and bejewelled, well, everything, UGG boots are an early 2000s trend which most were delighted to see the back of. That is, until they were suddenly everywhere again – on Dua Lipa, Kendall Jenner, Kaia Gerber, Gigi Hadid and what seems like half of the fashion world. And with the release of the funky California Heritage collection, we're preparing ourselves for a season of seeing the new braided styles on all the most stylish feet around.
Unlike with other Y2k revival brands such as Juicy Couture, Ed Hardy and Hello Kitty, it’s not a hot new collaboration or design overhaul that has got the fashion world leaning into UGGs this year. While last year’s Molly Goddard x UGG flatforms had their deserved time in the limelight, and the fashion crowd went crazy for the silver piercing-covered styles at KNWLS' SS23 show, curiously enough, it is the classic chestnut bootie of yore that has come back with a vengeance – albeit with a few 2023-worthy updates. Think mega flatform soles, mini below-the-ankle cuts, embroidered Tasman slippers and new styles featuring Cali-inspired statement braided details.
Originally worn by Aussie surfers in the Sixties before becoming the favourite shoe of Young Hollywood in the early Noughties, the UGG is one of the most hotly debated, love-it-or-hate-it shoes in recent history. But unlike its numerous ‘ugly’ shoe siblings (Crocs, Yeezys et al), it is not worn in a ‘subversively cool’ manner, nor to make a big style statement.
Its resurgence can’t even simply be put down to nostalgia for all things Y2K, one of the biggest trends to emerge from the SS22 and AW22 seasons. If anything, we’d much prefer to keep memories of us rocking the ripped denim mini-skirt with knee-high UGGs (top rolled down) look safely locked away until the end of time, thank you very much.
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UGG Classic Ultra Mini Braid Platform Boot
UGG Classic Ultra Mini Braid Platform Boot
UGG Classic Ultra Mini Braid Platform Boot
No, it’s definitely not about ‘fashion’ in that sense. This new-found obsession with UGGs is, in fact, all about comfort – and more specifically, sartorial defiance in the face of being told constantly that this is the time that we should be ‘going out-out’ and ‘dressing up-up’. In contrast, we’re still struggling to drag ourselves away from the comfy loungewear and fluffy slippers that have kept us safe and cosy at home for the past two years.
Of course, dressing up when we’ve only been able to dress down for as far as we can remember has its appeal – nothing can make you feel quite as fabulous as a great party dress and sky-high heels. But the rest of the time? Since WFH made slouchy, laid-back Cali cool a look we can actually and acceptably emulate on a daily basis, we’re not about to give that up anytime soon. And as demonstrated by the slew of off-duty models and style stars taking their favourite sheepskin boots for a real-world spin lately, it is clear that UGGs are an essential part of the uniform.
The only rules? Save the sliders for home and keep outdoor UGGs box-fresh at all times: brightly-coloured, plastic 'Boot Guards' are just £35 and will help keep them pristine while looking cool at the same time. Styling-wise, follow the Hollywood crew's lead and pair with little white socks and elevated loungewear separates for off-duty days, while for the office, slip the flatforms on under a pair of loose tailored trousers or baggy jeans and keep your head held high.
And, most importantly, enjoy every second of 2023’s hottest shoe being one which was specifically designed for comfort and warmth – and feels like walking on a snuggly, sheepskin cloud. It’s a sign of the times, and we’re loving every second. Just steer clear of the slightest hint of rain.
