Clogs date way, way back—like to ancient civilization—and yet this footwear remains a popular choice even today. In fact, clogs are kind of enjoying a little moment in the style spotlight, worn by everyone from Sienna Miller to Sarah Jessica Parker. Today’s iterations are less of the clunky wooden variety and far more trendy—think sneaker-meet-clog hybrids in splashy colors and chic silhouettes with wooden heels (a nod to the OGs) with leather uppers. Want in on this footwear frenzy? Take inspiration from these 9 ways to style clogs.
How to Style Clogs: 12 Ways
1. Match Them With a Midi Skirt
“A midi skirt pairs beautifully with clogs, offering a chic and feminine look that is perfect for various occasions,” says Catherine Bibeau, stylist and fashion veteran. “This versatile style can be dressed up or down.” She says to opt for a flowy skirt with a pattern or solid color that complements the clogs, and to balance the look with a fitted top or tucked-in blouse to highlight your waist.
2. Go Sporty with Treaded Soles
“I love some of the new designer takes on the clog,” says stylist and TV personality Dalia Mcphee. The sporty clog with its treaded sole is the perfect example of this. Pair them with linen trousers and a top or slip them on with a pair of yoga pants. She adds, “The treaded soles are sure to offer just the right amount of traction wherever the day or night may take you.”
3. Style With a Low-Key Dress
“A casual dress with clogs creates a comfortable and effortless look that’s perfect for warm weather or relaxed outings,” Bibeau says. It’s perf for happy hour, weekend errands, or brunch. Bibeau recommends choosing a dress with simple patterns or solid colors to keep the focus on the shoes, and to layer with a denim jacket or lightweight cardigan.
4. Try the Clogs and Socks Trend
Gen Z isn’t just wearing crew socks with their sneakers—they’re pairing them with everything from ballet shoes to clogs. Go for classic white, or spice things up with a fun color that complements or contrasts your clogs.
5. Pair With Wide-Leg Pants
Gone are skinny jeans, and in their place are roomy wide-leg pants. They work well with a lot of shoes, but Bibeau says they especially complement the chunky silhouette of clogs. “This combination evokes a relaxed, ‘70s-inspired, stylish, and comfortable vibe,” she says. “Tuck in a fitted top or blouse to create a streamlined silhouette and avoid looking overly bulky.”
6. Choose a Splashy Color
Clogs are anything but boring, but you can take them further into “attention grabbing” territory by wearing a pair in a bright color. “Don’t be afraid to embrace color and contrast to compliment all your ensembles,” Mcphee says. Tie it into your outfit by wearing the same color elsewhere—maybe via a bag, necklace, or a color from a garment.
7. Wear With Denim Overalls
Channel a little bit of that farmer-chic aesthetic by throwing on a pair of denim overalls with a cute collared tee underneath. Cognac-hued clogs are the perfect neutral, but you could also try a statement hue like fire engine ride or sunny yellow, or opt for another neutral like black or white.
8. Make It Chic With a Dress
Meeting up with friends for your dinner reservation or heading to an event? Slip on a pair of clogs with a chic dress and you’re equal parts cool and sophisticated. Opt for a bit of whimsy with a printed clog, like the one picture here, and pair it with a neutral dress, or do the opposite with a patterned dress and neutral clog.
9. Try a Monochromatic Look
Choose a color family and stick to it—including your clogs. This look features shades of brown, which is a flattering neutral hue anyone can pull off, but consider going pink, blue, or green.