May 23, 2025, 5:57 am | Read time: 5 minutes
Clogs shouldn’t just be familiar to you from tourist shops in the Netherlands—they’re making a comeback on the runways too. We’ve learned to stylishly pair this former worker’s shoe from its long history. STYLEBOOK presents four modern looks that are giving clogs a fresh reputation.
After rhinestone-studded Crocs, Adidas slides, and the revival of Buffalo platform shoes, clogs are also making a comeback. These shoes with their distinctive wooden soles enjoy waves of popularity time and again. However, pairing these chunky shoes is no easy task. With a few hacks, it’s possible to integrate these clogs into various everyday looks without much effort.
Overview
Clogs Through the Ages
Originating from the working class, clogs have evolved into a shoe style that has made a name for itself in the high-fashion world. Their utility in the late 18th and early 19th centuries was to provide protection during rural work. During the Industrial Revolution in Europe, factory workers also appreciated and frequently wore these robust shoes made from natural materials.
But that’s not all: In the 1970s, wooden clogs experienced a true comeback. In line with the Flower Power movement, designers decided to adapt the original worker’s shoe, altering the heel, embellishing the upper with stones, and designing models in all shapes and colors. Yet, they remained true to the main materials of clogs to express a connection to nature: a wooden sole with a leather upper.
The last major trend wave for the worker’s shoe occurred in the 2010s. Nowadays, they are made from all sorts of materials. While most manufacturers try to stay true to the wooden sole, there are now versions made from cork. Leather is no longer a must for the upper material. Synthetic fabrics are in vogue, reflecting an ever-faster-paced–and lower-quality–fashion world. This means clogs are now available in all price ranges.
A Luxury Shoe for Comfort Lovers
Passionate clog wearers describe the wooden shoes as especially comfortable. Similar to the footbed of Crocs and Birkenstocks, which are dearly loved by their fans, the base of clogs is ergonomically curved to provide maximum support for the foot. Dior showcases classic clogs with flowing evening dresses, Vivienne Westwood offers all-black clogs, and Gucci simply adorns the clog with its signature gold buckle. But beware: Only with the right styling do these shoes not look dowdy.
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How to Best Style Clogs
The classic clog is primarily made from light poplar or maple wood with a closed toe and the typical rivets at the transition from the upper material to the wooden sole. However, wooden sandals or Mary Jane-style wooden shoes with ankle straps are also often referred to as clogs. To ensure the chunky shoe doesn’t look too dowdy, you can combine it in these four ways:
As a Contrast to the Feminine
The clog was originally part of the typical boho styling of the 1970s and was worn with airy dresses made of silk or lace. The trendy fashion icons of the time did everything right: pairing a chunky shoe with delicate pieces. You can opt for floral prints, elegant blouses, as well as feminine fabrics and cuts.
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Chic and Natural
Black, cognac, maybe mustard yellow–it shouldn’t get more colorful in this ensemble. Clogs can be wonderfully combined with quiet and elegant clothing elements.
This style is perfect for an office look in late summer. Choose the shoe in a natural color and integrate it into an outfit with a knit dress or suit.
All Eyes on Your Shoes!
Go big or go home! If you want to show off the wooden clogs, don’t hide them. Dresses and skirts in this style can be midi-length to keep the focus on the shoes. Modern cropped pants that end above the ankle and can be slightly flared also look great. Minimalists, in particular, will be pleased: A subtle outfit in white or black highlights the shoes. This way, even the chunky clog can look cool. It’s advisable to choose a striking pair for this style. There are cool models in cow print, with glitter, studs, and everything else you could wish for. Also crucial: Choose the heel that suits you. There are models with platforms, flat soles, or high heels.
Also interesting: Which Socks to Pair with Which Shoes
Clogs with a Sporty Casual Two-Piece
Even though the shoe is suitable for anything but sports, you can pair it with a gym outfit. With flared sports leggings, a top, and a cardigan, you’ve created the perfect summer look for a café visit followed by a yoga session. In this style, the wooden clog has the chance to show its coolest side.