Every generation has a particular piece of clothing that is just considered the biggest fashion faux pas and you wouldn’t be caught dead wearing it outside of the house. Unfortunately, those items were usually the most comfortable ones, and with the fashion rules changing fast, people are now embracing the so-called “ugly shoes” and making them staple pieces in their wardrobes. But how do you possibly style these shoes and where can you wear them? Here are a few tips and tricks.

Toe shoes

Seeing shoes that have a separate space for each toe can at first be… unsettling. However, they are made for a reason and there are actually quite a few occasions when you can wear them. Basically, these shoes are made to simulate the feeling of walking barefoot, and people who wear them on a regular basis swear by them. You can start by wearing them around the house to get used to the feeling, and that is actually what the manufacturers recommend. But when you do get used to them, they are perfect for basically any outdoor activity, whether it’s morning runs, hiking or gym. They will actually blend in when you are wearing sports clothing so you don’t have to worry about them sticking out.

Sandals

Are you thinking, pretty, dainty, strappy sandals? This isn’t that kind of article. We are talking full on thick-strap Teva sandals that you most certainly wore if you were a kid in the ’90s. The kind that you would probably take a sneaky picture of if you saw someone wearing them with socks. But with fashion trends today, these shoes have become the biggest hit on festivals and it’s so easy to incorporate them into your everyday look. Pair them with a pair of relaxed culottes and a casual top and you have a great day look. If you want something that is easier to incorporate, go for a pair that is a single color, and preferably something neutral like white or gray.

Crocs are back

For years, the shoes holding the title of the ugliest shoe have been the ever-so-practical Crocs. Their rubbery look just couldn’t be paired with anything to make them look nice, but we are all in luck because the comeback of Crocs footwear is upon us. It’s not just because of the way people are styling them, it’s the revamped look. Crocs now come in so many shades and prints that you can definitely make them look good. Pair them up with street style looks oversized coats, cropped high-waisted pants, and retro accessories. The more retro you look – the better the crocs will fit in. Make sure you’re not wearing them with anything too casual, because you risk looking like you forgot to change before leaving the house.

Platform anything

Whoever thought that putting a large, solid platform on everything from sneakers to sliders was most certainly out of their mind. It’s not all that more comfortable than just wearing heels and the chunky look makes it hard to pair them with anything. Unless, of course, if you’re following the new cyber-trends that have been cruising the fashion world. Sneakers with a large platform are all the rage in sci-fi and futuristic fashion, and so are large-platform heels. Wear them with appropriately themed clothing and you will be able to make the look blend perfectly.

Chunky sneakers

Ever since Balenciaga revamped the 90s sneakers, everyone has been wearing the oversize, overcolored chunky sneakers that really make you look like a big kid. But people have been pulling them off and looking great, and we mostly have today’s celebrities to thank for that. The young, hip people in the spotlight don’t care too much about dressing in fancy suits and looking “proper”. It’s all about the street style, the hip-hop and sportswear all day long – a type of style where sneakers like these fit right in. They might not be considered appropriate for a formal event, but they are as comfortable as you will get for an everyday shoe that will get you places.

Thigh-high heels

Pulling off thigh-high heels is a tricky thing, as you can so easily slip into looking like you’re on your way to a red light district. But when worn right, thigh-highs can make you look stunning, and it’s all about knowing how to style them. Don’t ever wear them with mini-skirts or dresses because that’s when they will look the most trashy. Something like a midi dress with a slit, so that the height of the boots is only sometimes visible is a perfect way to wear them, and they will look classy and even professional.

Don’t forget that it’s never about the shoe – it’s about the confidence you wear it with. Don’t miss out on wearing something just because you think that it’s a faux pas. Find your own way to rock it and be proud of it.