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Shop the Best ‘Ugly Shoes’ Styles of 2026
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As consumers, we’re all victims of the whims of the world’s ever-changing trend cycles, whether it’s the bejeweled satin heels pioneered by Carrie Bradshaw, the Y2K-era gladiator sandals that made a surprising comeback at Coachella 2026, or the quietly luxurious flip-flops that The Row subtly popularized in the summer.
Do you actively participate in this hype, or stay on the sidelines and embrace trendy items, or at least admit Their charm is inescapable. And while some viral shoe moments (look at you, snort people) are already giving us major fatigue, others have shown amazing staying power. Among this latter group, nothing is more appealing than the obsession with “ugly shoes.” When we say “ugly” we don’t mean it in the traditional sense. These shoes aren’t ugly or hard to see. Instead, it is a unique product that is playful and provocative, breaking the industry mold while turning heads with every step.
Unconventional shoes have always existed, and we look back at towering platforms Chopine in Renaissance Europe — whose stature was usually a clear sign of the wearer’s nobility — this confirms the fact. The heelless high heels of the late 2000s and early 2010s (Lady Gaga’s non-negotiables) were similarly part of the same quest for novelty, an inherent “cool” factor, and status for what we choose to wear on our feet. The modern resurgence of the “ugly shoes” mania can also be attributed to the “camp” movement that began in the 1960s, largely in the wake of Susan Sontag’s essay “Notes on Camp.”
This period in history was all about accepting and understanding the unusual and novel absurdity before applying it to one’s personal fashion choices and fashion. life overall choice. The same rules apply to the 2026 “ugly shoes” trend, albeit on a smaller scale. The idea is now looming large in the public imagination, with everyone from fashion week front-row attendees to A-listers like Bella Hadid, Emma Chamberlain and Doja Cat starting to incorporate the controversial shoe silhouette into their sartorial equations, with brands such as Maison Margiela (the infamous Tavi), Schiaparelli, Marc Jacobs and Loewe having a particular penchant for it.
Introducing quirky kicks into your outfit rotation can instantly elevate even the most basic looks, giving them focal point and visual ground. Below are the “ugly shoes” you should buy online for spring. Courtesy of leading companies from Puma to Nike.
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Melissa×Y/Project coat clog
The shoes are best described as a combination of clogs and works of art, with design codes that simultaneously evoke “Cinderella,” “Snow White,” and “The Smurfs.” The product, a collaboration between jelly sandal sensation Melissa and the now-defunct avant-garde Y/Project, was an instant hit upon its release two years ago. Fortunately, most sizes are currently still in stock, so enjoy! Made from 100% PVC, this clog is flexible, durable, and, according to Melissa, “light as air,” which is exactly what you need as temperatures soar.
The geometric embossing here is meant to give a noble feel, and you’ll be even more pleased with the slip-on’s bubblegum and tutti frutti scent, a signature touch of the brand that created this slip-on. The fanciful design is finished with an upwardly curved toe and block heel for a flattering lift. You’ll also have peace of mind knowing that it’s completely vegan, eco-friendly, and recyclable. What should I style my coat clogs with? We recommend using it to jazz up your upcoming jeans and T-shirt combination.
Prices on the date of publication of this article: $349
Nike Jordan Point Women’s Shoes
The “ballet core” is still alive and well in these Jordan Point sneakers. Nike’s spring sneakers feature a quirky flair (just peek at the metallic pops and dancer-inspired bow embellishments that wrap around the calf). The shoe’s outsole is extremely thick, reflecting the famous Jordan look, and provides a non-slip effect for walking, running, or perfecting pirouettes. The Nike Jordan Point’s Incognito lacing system allows the ribbon to be worn close to the foot or stretched along the leg. The former is especially suitable for baggy denim, the latter for ensembles centered around miniskirts. The Barbie pink version of the Stepper is nearly sold out online, so if you’ve been longing for something perfect for the warmer months, don’t waste your time and snag this feminine, futuristic option.
Prices on the date of publication of this article: $125
Nike Air Rift Breeze Shoes
Opinions about tabi are divided in modern times, but their roots can be traced back to ancient times. Japan in the 15th century (This silhouette originates from split-toed socks worn with wooden thong sandals called geta). Sensing the fashion world’s yearning for a return to tradition, labels like Maison Margiela and now Nike have taken the big-toe separation style and catapulted it into the 21st century with bold new colors and prints. That said, if you’re tired of wearing the same old white sneakers, Nike’s Air Rift Breeze might be just the thing for you.
This shoe features a temperature-regulating mesh upper with an easy hook-and-loop closure. While it may look unassuming, you’ll be surprised to find that the Air Rift Breathe also comes with additional features like Air cushioning in the heel, a soft foam-filled midsole, and quick-drying capabilities. Its name comes from Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, and seeing as how the Swoosh brand designed the model with direct input from the country’s barefoot distance runners, it’s not for nothing. If we can provide enough support, their A difficult pursuit, it will continue you Comfortable for a relatively relaxing time.
Prices on the date of publication of this article: $125
PUMA Mostro Mid Women’s Mid-Top Sneakers
These boxing shoes don’t follow the typical fighter formula. Instead, it’s a high-style rendition wrapped in a luxurious (and ever-on-trend) chocolate brown hue that references both “the sleek running spikes of the ’60s and the surfing shoes of the ’80s,” according to Puma. Mostro Mid protects your ankles. and Protect your feet no matter the terrain, whether it’s in the boxing ring, on the street, or anywhere else. The blended material upper is also breathable, making it suitable for transitional wear, and the lace-up closure extends the length of the shoe’s façade. Similar to Melissa’s call above, PUMA’s Frankenstein sneakers (they’re monsters, after all) defy convention and inspire us to do a little bit of the same this new season.
Prices on the date of publication of this article: $130
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Author introduction
Amina Ayud A commerce writer at Penske Media, she writes about everything from celebrity style to new shoe releases. Ayud has developed a deep appreciation for fashion history and the luxury industry from a young age. In her free time, she is a self-proclaimed fashion geek and thrifty person. Ayud attended Virginia Commonwealth University where she studied Fashion Merchandising along with Mass Communication. After college, she worked on Fashion Snoop’s culture team and as a beauty writer for Allure, WWD, Footwear News, Glamor, and more before joining Billboard.
Stacia Datskowska Senior Commerce Writer at WWD. Previously, she worked as an assistant digital editor at ELLE DECOR, covering all things luxury, culture, and lifestyle through the lens of design. Over the past five years, her byline has appeared in USA Today, the Baltimore Sun, Teen Vogue, the Boston Globe, Food & Wine, and more. Before joining ELLE DECOR, Datskowska learned the ins and outs of e-commerce at Mashable, where she tested products, covered tent pole sales, and curated gift guides. She graduated from New York University with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and international relations. Datskowska regularly reports on the hottest topics of the day and how to buy them online.
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