Crocs were once taboo. Considered ugly, clompy and appropriate only when worn for gardening, if at all. But that was years ago and fast-forward to today, the eponymous brand has worked its way into the households and onto the feet of those who once deemed them unacceptable. I am one of those people.
Perhaps it was when Christopher Kane sent them down the runway in 2016, covered in garish embellishments and glossy pearlescent decorations, that the style set first took notice? Could it be that comfort had been approved by one of London’s most lauded fashion designers? The beauty of this move was that the shape of the actual shoe remained true to the original, so those without a £350 budget (the cost per pair of Kane’s designs) could revert back to the originals and get the look at a more accessible price. The brand started stocking clip-on accessories of their own, allowing customers to create a bespoke look a la the runway.
Courtesy of Sarah Bannerman
Courtesy of Sarah Bannerman
Perhaps the backstory as to what made Crocs an acceptable fashion piece is irrelevant now, but it’s sure to have played a part in why it went from ignored to irreplaceable by the likes of, well, me. I first dabbled with the idea when my husband (laughingly) requested a pair for his birthday a few years back. Mocking him, I set about finding the most aesthetically pleasing colour possible – I was going to have to look at them, after all. Immediately, they became his at-home slipper replacement, accompanied by consistent cries of just how comfortable they were. Then, when my children started walking, I got them a pair each (still no embellishments, thank you – it remains a step too far for me) and it’s fair to say they’re the cheapest cost-per-wear item in their wardrobes. The colours mean they choose them over any other shoe, and they’ve come on every holiday and UK staycation. They’re the ideal beach shoe, and the kids wear them around and in the swimming pool, too.
I’d clearly been missing out, and one long weekend in Cornwall, I finally caved. Practicality was the driving force (unpredictable April weather and interchangeable day plans meant my bags were already laden with layering options for all). Six months later and I’m adding to my collection with the chunky-soled Crocs Getaway Flatform Flip in black. Spring/Summer 25 has welcomed the comeback of the humble flip flop, and while Havaianas are a clear winner in the simplicity style stakes, I love the idea of having a pair of flip flops that I can wear for work, in the evening and on the beach.
Courtesy of Sarah Bannerman
Courtesy of Sarah Bannerman
In fact, I felt so committed to my Crocs Getaway Flatform Flip that I confidently made them the only pair of shoes I took on my most recent trip to the Balearics.
On route to the airport, I wore them with leggings and an oversized denim jacket, and when I checked into my hotel, I swapped all but my shoes to head to the pool, choosing a breezy linen co-ord, sunglasses and throwing a book in my basket bag. That night, these shoes made a strapless, block-colour wrap dress feel put-together yet effortless and – above all – comfortable, and the next day I hit the local markets in cut-off shorts and a knitted tank top teamed with (you guessed it) my Crocs.
For 48 hours on an island in the sun, they were the perfect companion, and one I’ll rely on time and time again. Only a few years ago, I would have laughed at this idea. Now, I’m the Crocs Getaway Platform Flip’s biggest fan.
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Great Job Sarah Leigh Bannerman & the Team @ Condé Nast Traveler UK Source link for sharing this story.
