The “UGG” boot grew in popularity during the mid to late 2000s, though the brand was founded in the late 70s. The boot was popularized by celebrities such as Paris Hilton and Kate Moss, who were seen wearing it in various paparazzi shots. The classic Ugg boot they were seen wearing had a rounded toe with a fleece lining, came above the ankle, and had warm fur on the inside. This was soon deemed the staple fall boot.
But while these shoes quickly gained a great deal of attention, some of it was negative. Many people thought that the shoe was ugly and chunky, and would go out of style. By the late 2010s, it was labeled “basic” and going out of style. With popularity decreasing, Ugg needed to change to remain relevant. So Ugg got creative and put out many new styles and colors for people to enjoy, as well as came out with new products. Ugg created a new look for their boots and introduced the “Tasman Slippers”, which quickly sold out everywhere. The shoe also became increasingly popular due to being worn by models, YouTubers, and tiktokers, as well as going viral for the company’s unique design collaborations.
This newfound interest has sparked the question, are Uggs really just an old trend, or are they here to stay as a fall wardrobe staple? Student, Majda Lampe, believes the former claiming, “Uggs are just becoming more trendy now because people are nostalgic for them. TikTok popularized old trends and Uggs are nothing new. The humor in wearing these ugly shoes will die off soon.” That sentiment is shared by many who think these shoes are just another passing trend. However, fellow Fenwick student Emma Slawinski thinks otherwise, “I don’t think that Uggs ever really went out of style, I think that they’re probably always going to be worn.”
Fast-growing trends indeed tend to lose popularity quickly, but if the shoe continues on this new steady trajectory, it will become a timeless piece of clothing.