Crocs, the comfortable and practical footwear, have unexpectedly entered the high-fashion arena. While traditionally associated with casual wear, recent appearances on the red carpet and collaborations with high-fashion designers have sparked debate: Are Crocs truly fashionable?
Vogue writer Hannah Jackson suggests that if one must wear Crocs for a formal event, a platform style might be acceptable. Colleague Christian Allaire, while a self-proclaimed Crocs lover, firmly believes they don’t belong with formal attire. This sentiment seems widely shared within the fashion community.
However, Vogue’s living editor Liam Hess offers a counterpoint, arguing that black Simone Rocha Crocs paired with a dress are perfectly acceptable formalwear. He also defends the Christopher Kane Crocs, while drawing the line at the Balenciaga heel Crocs for formal occasions. The consensus seems to be that comfort shouldn’t be sacrificed for style, questioning the purpose of a stiletto Croc. Vogue.com editor Chloe Malle adds that perhaps pearls on Crocs might be the sole exception to the formalwear rule.
The debate highlights the inherent tension between comfort and high fashion. While some may find the Croc and gown combination jarring, there’s an undeniable appeal to prioritizing comfort, especially in the context of events requiring prolonged standing. Actress Brooke Shields recently made a bold statement by wearing classic Crocs to the Tony Awards. While this choice might not adhere to traditional formalwear rules, it underscores a shift towards individuality and personal style.
Perhaps the key to incorporating Crocs into more formal settings lies in choosing the right style. Platform Crocs, like the Mega Crush, offer added height and a more fashion-forward silhouette. The Simon Miller bubble clog presents another potential option for those seeking a more elevated Croc experience. Ultimately, the question of whether Crocs are fashionable remains subjective. However, their increasing presence in high-fashion circles and the willingness of individuals to challenge conventional style norms suggest that Crocs’ place in the fashion world may be evolving.
