Things are getting Ugg-ly. Yes, I’m talking about the much loved but also hated Ugg boots. Do you love them? Hate them? Or are you one of those outliers who’s indifferent like my own mother- she thinks that they’re comfy but wouldn’t bother buying them herself. Cozy and unattractive as hell, these boots have managed hold their fashion staying power for over a decade now. Heck, more than that.
I still remember this “college makeover” my junior year at Pitt that Macy’s did in conjunction with TLC’s hit show “What Not To Wear” and both girls they made over were wearing uggs (and some other questionable things like even uglier sweatpants) in their “before” photos. If you’re a celebrity and choose to wear them you tend to look more attractive; Blake Lively is known for loving her Uggs and making them look good no matter whatever else she was wearing.
Blake Lively sporting a pair of classic Uggs while on set for Gossip Girl in NYC. Photo courtesy of Pinterest.
People are still really divided over Uggs: they either LOVE them or think that they’re hideous and scoff at anyone who wears them. I used to be in the first camp. My self-described style is classic but with modern cool and for a long time I felt that the fluffy, bulky boots didn’t have a place in my closet. Then I moved to England where it’s just cold and raw in the winter. It doesn’t snow like it does in the Northeast but it’s still kind of miserable. I needed something cozy as I puttering around Henley On Thames. I came across a pair of Ugg boots in a charity shop and despite being literally broke (like, really…) I splurged on this used pair and instantly realized that I’d been judging them so unfairly.
Don’t get wrong. I still think that their attractiveness is on the low end the spectrum: I wear them as necessary but there’s a time and place for that. If I’m “going out” (whatever that will look like in the age of Covid?) I’ll throw on a pair of “over the knee” boots or a chic pair of Chelsea boots. No Uggs. The Uggs are like indoor/ outdoor slippers or what I concede to wearing when I am SUPER lazy.
But I see why people love them. They are just that comfortable. And beyond the original chestnut brown suede, Ugg has added the boots in a variety of colors and finishes (bedazzled with sparkles anyone?) and a bunch of different styles so you can find a way to stylishly work them into your wardrobe. And they’ve taken on a certain status appeal that some brands get: think Patagonia or Birkenstock.
Photo courtesy of newbeauty.com
Even I have a couple of pairs. I’ve got a short brown pair with these little bows on the back that are worn to death and still going. That brings me to quality. Because who wants to spends hundreds (or even $50 bucks) on something that’s going to fall apart and clog a landfill? (The answer should be no one). Uggs are made of genuine Sheepskin with a solid rubber sole and some pretty good sticking and finishing to match. Like anything, if you really abuse them they will fall apart. But if you take care of them they will last and we worth the investment. You can even buy replacement shearling insoles to make the inside all fluffy and comfy again after a few years of wear.
So I’ve talked about the reasons why people love them (they’re cozy, comfy, and have status appeal) so what are the downsides? Well, if the bulky style doesn’t bother you then the price might. Genuine Ugg Boots sold retail range in the hundreds of dollars depending on style and finish. For some people, that might be a deal breaker. Some people just can justify or even afford $140 for Ugg Boots. But there’s a couple of options. You can search for a pair at places like Nordstrom Rack and other off-retail stores. You can also buy a pair used (remember those replacement insoles???). Or if you want the cozy and the look but don’t need to have actual Ugg brand boots there are a lot of similar styles offered by other reputable brands like Bear Paw (who I actually love by the way).
So regardless of whether you love or hate them, it sounds like Ugg and Shearling Boots are here to stay. Keep reading to shop some great options below and leave us a comment below re: your feelings about this loved and hated footwear trend.
Ugg Classic Tall Boot, $170 via Nordstrom
Ugg Short Boot in Velvet, $180 via Poshmark
Bearpaw Shearling Boots, $70 via Mercari
Ugg Tall Ciera Boot, $88 via Poshmark
Koolaburra by UGG Koola Short Boots, $55 via eBay
I hope that you guys enjoyed this Ugg and Shearling Boot post! If there’s something specific you’d like me to discuss for next time, leave me a comment below or send me an email! ___________________________________________________________________________________________
At Chic On A Shoestring, my goal is to help you navigate the world in your quest to look good without going broke. All of my picks are independently selected and curated because I genuinely think they’re awesome. If you buy something via link, Chic On A Shoestring may earn commission.
All listed items are sold by third parties and Chic On A Shoestring is not responsible for any errors with regards to listings and prices. All item details are accurate at time of posting but availability and pricing may have changed (so hurry up and go shopping!). But please do refer to sale site for up to date details.
For more inspiration and tips on how to be Chic On A Shoestring, be sure to check out our social media pages and leave a comment below or contact us. Happy shopping!