The Ugly-Chic Shoes We'll All Wear in 2017

It seems the entire fashion universe has been obsessing over this idea of "ugly pretty" over the last few seasons—beginning with Phoebe Philo's introduction of furry pool slides back in 2013 and Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen's Birkenstock obsession. From there, street style stars and celebs alike displayed their interpretations of the trend in the form of clunky sandals, offbeat clogs, and more from brands like Teva, Dr. Scholl's, and Crocs. Sure, the entire trend may still feel totally unexpected and out there, but whether you've tested it out for yourself already or are still questioning it, just know that it really is one of the simplest ways to give your vibe that cool, of-the-moment feel. And truth be told, the look is only going to get more massive in the months to come. The biggest designers including Christopher Kane, Alexander Wang, and Versace heralded the trend, showcasing a range of "ugly" shoes on the 2017 runways—think interesting sandals and unexpected sneakers.
Curious about the looks you're bound to see everywhere next year? Go on to check out the top runway looks featuring the coolest "ugly-chic" shoes.
Unexpected Clogs and Flats
We'll admit, we certainly didn't expect to see Crocs on the runway, but we're into the offbeat, forward look. The same goes for unique clogs and flats as well.
Flip-Flops and Flatforms
No, flip-flops won't be reserved just for the beach anymore. As Alexander Wang, Versace, and Dries van Noten showcased, the rubber sandal is getting a high-fashion makeover next year—and it's ready to be incorporated into your cool, off-duty life.
Offbeat Sneakers
Sure, those classic white sneakers you live in aren't going anywhere anytime soon, but 2017 is the year of the weird trainer, featuring bright colors and different silhouettes in fabrics like neoprene.
What trend will you test out first? Let us know in the comments below, and shop current "ugly-chic" shoes here.
Opening Image: Getty Images

Bobby Schuessler is a fashion editor with over a decade of editorial experience covering shopping, style, and beauty. He's spent 10 years at Who What Wear, currently leading the market team to deliver highly covetable and convertible content. He creates data-driven shopping guides featuring top retailers like Nordstrom, Shopbop, and Net-a-Porter and is at the forefront of Who What Wear's shopping tentpole strategies, including Amazon Prime Day. He also works on branded content initiatives and appears on camera in video and shopping livestream franchises.
-
The Brutally Honest Skincare Advice You Needed to Know Yesterday, According to 2 Beauty Industry Vets
The Dieux founders share their hot takes and unfiltered product recs.
-
Sorry to My Classic Black Shoes, But This Printed Shoe Trend Is Defining Fall 2025
Spotted on fashion people in Venice, NYC, and Copenhagen.
-
If You're Going to Wear Flat Sandals in September, This Is the Exact Outfit to Copy
Hailey Bieber-approved.
-
5 Chic End-of-Summer Denim Outfits That Will Make You Look Like a Fashion Person
From Stockholm to Paris to London.
-
Black Sandals Are Nice and All, But in NYC, Everyone Knows This Shoe Color Looks Chicer With White Pants
The unexpected choice is always a winner in this particular city.
-
In Istanbul, J.Lo Wore a Matching Set With the Shoe Color Trend That's Guaranteed to Make Outfits Look Rich
Money.
-
Sorry, But This Pretty Sandal Trend Is Much More Appropriate for Manhattan Than Rubber Flip-Flops
I'll have what Anne Hathaway is having.
-
Just to Be Clear, *These* Are the Pants Fashion People in L.A. Are Wearing Instead of Basic Jeans
Spotted in Paris too.
-
Dripping in Wealth Is the Vibe—These 32 Elevated Nordstrom and Zara Summer Finds Fit the Bill Perfectly
Under $200 and guaranteed to sell out.
-
PSA: Fashion People in NYC and Italy Are Wearing This "Dated" Flat-Shoe Trend With Denim Skirts and Dresses
Gwyneth Paltrow and Anne Hathaway are on board.