When I think of clogs, I recoil in horror; images of Dutch milkmaid’s and Morris dancers spring to mind – I doubt this reaction is uncommon.
This season, however, Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Kurt Geiger have done the unthinkable and taken on the clog! Now, even I seem to have been persuaded to suspend my disgust, and find myself considering slipping into a pair of clogs this summer.
It is tempting to think that pondering clogs signals little more than a break with sanity; induced by late nights and the stresses of life. But I doubt you need reminding that, once upon a time, jumpsuits, leggings and daytime maxi-dresses were met with similar distain. But, what exactly is it about clogs that now make them so covetable?
For me, it is their incredible wooden bases that make them irresistible. Not only does the promise of height excite me; they simply look enormously fun to wear. Looking back at me from the foot of the runway, they shout, “I will make you feel better about life.” And, when I consider their claim, I am inclined to believe.
Brilliantly summery; beautifully crafted and wonderfully different; what’s not to like? In fact, there is something quite scrumptious about the combination of bolshie materials and softer elements. Chunky wood, with metal studs and thick leather, all in pastel shades and decorated with a sprinkling of jewels and flowers from Chanel, or extraordinary fluff from Louis Vuitton.
Disappointingly, the clogs that most of us buy will not have been born in the mind of a fashion giant. Nor will they have been spotted on the feet of Alexa Chung, or the Olsen twins.
However, high street favorites like Topshop, Zara, Aldo and Office still offer stunning summer clogs at more sensible prices.
They say everything comes back into fashion eventually, but I doubt anyone was holding their breath for the return of the “milkmaid look”.