Let's Talk About Clogs, The Marmite of Footwear
- emilylrking3
- Dec 27, 2023
- 3 min read
By Emily King
Clogs.
They're undoubtedly a shoe that divides opinion, but in 2023, they've been all the rage.
Gone are the days of orthopaedic shoes of dentists, nurses and gardeners worn for comfort and convenience. Enter a new world of clogs, clomping their way into our lives for the long term.
To really paint you a picture of the evolution of the clog, we need to take a tour of their history. Amazingly, the iconic wooden clog can be traced back to Holland in the 1300s. So they're clearly a shoe that stands the test of time...but there are a few things we need to clarify.
Firstly, what do I mean when I say 'clog'?
Well, you've got the old, Dutch wooden icon that we know and love. You know the miniature ones you can buy as a novelty gift or keyring in Amsterdam that are colourfully painted? They're the real OG in 'clog'.
But in this new and exciting world of ever-changing fashion trends and opinions, the term 'clog' goes far beyond our little wooden friend. Whether it's a sandal or slider à la Birkenstock, a more pro-plastic Croc alternative, or a designer brand with their own twist on the traditional clog. In fact, Financial Times writer Louis Wise, coined the terms 'Chic' and 'Eek' in relation to the subdivide of styles of clog. Chic - as the word would suggest - being a high-end Balenciaga vibe, whereas 'Eek' looking more like a bright yellow, charm-encrusted piece of rubber. I sort of agree with Louis and this description or terminology, but there are now so many types of clogs that I think it's less about fashion categories.
Now it's all about a clog for all emotional states.
I'm here for it, but there is a large demographic of people who find them frankly hideous. To those clogophobic people I say, don't judge a clog by its chunky, clunky, clompy cover.
With that in mind, let's take a look at some clogs and their corresponding emotional states.
The Birkenstock Clog
This clog is my favourite of the clogs on offer in 2023. Mainly because I'm a staunch Birkenstock fan and have been since before they became 'cool' a few years ago. The emotional state I attribute these guys to? Feeling like you've come home.
The Crocs Clog
It's a bit of a tongue twister to say 'Crocs clog', but Crocs were way ahead of the game when it comes to slide-on footwear that is super comfortable. Fortunately, or unfortunately, (depending on how you look at it!) they come in a wide array of vibrant colours to showcase almost every mood. If I had to narrow it down to one though, I'd say fun.
The Sleek Clog
For those of us who want the comfort and warmth of a traditional Croc, without the draughty holes and in a more professional setting. I'm calling it the sleek clog, but it could become the corporate clog of tomorrow. Just give it a few years. Emotionally, this is the serious guy in slide-on footwear.
The Heeled Wooden Clog
Last but certainly not least, we have the heeled wooden clog. As heels go, she's pretty practical given the chunky wooden heel and emotionally I reckon she's both strong and warm. If wholesomeness was a shoe, this would be it.
Marmite or no Marmite, there's no denying that I think clogs are here to stay and provide comfort (whatever mood you're in).
So keep calm this winter, and clog on.
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