If fashion has taught us anything over the past few years, it’s that no shoe is too weird or quintessentially “ugly” to become the next big thing. We’ve embraced jelly sandals, tabi flats, even the odd toe-separating silhouette. But the latest contender for style’s most rogue star? The humble gardening clog.
Why are they popular?
But what makes gardening clogs more than a passing curiosity is the philosophy they represent. These shoes celebrate the anti-fashion movement: the idea that style doesn’t have to be complicated, sleek, or precious. Garden clogs are unapologetically practical. They don’t pretend to be elegant. They’re not trying to elongate your leg or showcase meticulous craftsmanship. Their charm lies in their honesty.
Designers have taken note, too. Brands that once leaned into sleek platforms and sculptural heels are experimenting with rubber, hemp blends, waterproof finishes, and earthy tones – from Crocs to Aime Leon Dore to Birkenstock and Dr Marten. You can now find gardening clogs in understated neutrals, glossy high-end versions, and cushy platform interpretations. Whether you gravitate toward a budget-friendly pair or a designer collaboration, the clog has evolved into a shoe you can wear to walk the dog, grab a coffee, or meet friends for wine – rain or shine.
Where did the trend originate?
Once relegated to potting sheds and backyard patios, the rubber footwear of choice for gardening aficionados and Japanese grandfathers has quietly stepped into the centre of the fashion conversation. The appeal is obvious once you look past its potato-like sihouette: these shoes are durable, weather-proof, wildly comfortable, and surprisingly versatile. And in an age when utility has become the new frontier of luxury, the gardening clog’s unpretentious silhouette suddenly feels refreshingly modern.
More specifically, the Plasticana Gardana clog – originally a French gardening shoe made from hemp-based plastic – first gained a following through Brooklyn boutique Salter House, where chefs, dog walkers, and aesthetes from around New York City embraced its earthy, utilitarian vibe. Designer Emily Bode Aujla sent them down her Fall 2020 runway, pushing them into the fashion spotlight.
Digitally, TikTok labeled them the “I live in Brooklyn” shoes, fuelling curiosity around their odd, mottled look. Word-of-mouth hype, limited restocks, and widespread appearances across stylish neighbourhoods solidified the once-obscure clog as a cult favourite. And earlier this year, content creator @alisonhopemurray went viral discussing her quest for the perfect ‘door shoe’ (i.e. those easy-to-slip-on pairs you keep by your front door, perfect for a coffee or bin run), which only furthered the appeal of the style.
Who is wearing gardening clogs?
Across the globe, the whose-who are wearing rubberised clogs with rolled-hem trousers, oversized knits, and even tailored outerwear. Jennifer Lawrence wore a pair earlier this month on a night out, paired with a loose jean and red sweatshirt. Bella Hadid paired hers with a white athletic set and an oversized trucker jacket. Influ
Where to buy them
If comfort ranks high on your fashion priorities, if you enjoy a touch of irony in your wardrobe, or if you simply love a trend that doesn’t take itself too seriously, you may just find yourself in need of a pair. If you don’t know where to find them however, we’ve got you covered, below.
Plasticana Gardana Hemp Clog
Aimé Leon Dore Garden Clogs
JW Anderson x Wellipets Frog Clogs
Superga Rubber Flat Mules
Birkenstock Profi Birki 2.0 Regular Unisex
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