Velcro Sneakers Are the Latest ‘Ugly’ Shoes to Be Embraced By the Fashion Set

Dainty, streamlined and delicate are not the adjectives being used to describe the hottest shoe trends. Dad-like, chunky, ugly and even orthopedic are the phrases being used — and they’re meant in a lovable, complimentary way. Gone are the days when we wanted shoes that flattered the foot and elongated the leg. For Spring 2018, we want sturdy shoes that cannot be missed.

The proof was in the footwear at fashion month. All the cool girls looked like they borrowed shoes from their dads and grandpas. If you thought that chunky, sturdy shoes like the Balenciaga Triple S were peak ugly shoe, another unlikely style has emerged for the season: Velcro sneakers.

The last time you wore Velcro shoes was probably when you had recess. Then you upgraded to “big girl” shoes with laces and never looked back. Fashion is now reminding us how convenient and satisfying that rrrrrrrrip of Velcro can be. Rather than looking to kids’ footwear, designers are looking to the chunkier, grandpa-approved sneakers and putting a fashion-forward spin on them.

Velcro sneakers were spotted on the Spring 2018 runways at Burberry, Lacoste, Issey Miyake, Prada and Anne Sofie Madsen, with each designer offering a different take. There were Velcro-lace hybrids, shoe socks, chunky boots-turned-sneakers and bold color patterns.

Celebrities are also getting on board with the old-school (pre-school?) style. Mary-Kate Olsen was recently papped in white Alexander McQueen Velcro sneakers. Tracee Ellis Ross had an Instagram post dedicated to her Velcro sneakers, writing, “I really love my sneakers. Like, I’m obsessed with them,” in response to critics who previously called out her choice of footwear.

The only way to truly understand the allure of Velcro grandpa sneakers is to wear them. Shop 19 pairs of Velcro sneakers below that will make you more obsessed with ugly footwear.

[ Next: 20 Wedges That’ll Make You Excited to Wear Wedges Again ]