It’s 2026, and the "ugly shoe" agenda is not just alive – it’s kicking, running, jumping, and boldly toeing the line between ironic and iconic (both literally and figuratively).

You may have seen the commentary online from some of your favourite fashion critics (like RUSSH fave, the NYC-based Mandy Lee aka @oldloserinbrooklyn) talking the talk and walking the walk about the good, the bad, the ugly and the strange in the wild west of footwear for a while now. From toe separating Curtsy Toes wedge's that look like they wandered straight out of a nail salon, to CHANEL's Cruise 2027 barely-there sandal that caught the internet's attention overnight – fresh from the runway. There’s no denying it: the shoe game has never been weirder – or more fashion-forward.

This fresh wave of footwear chaos arguably began with the Maison Margiela Tabi – an OG viral disruptor (though not the first) that first split the fashion world down the middle (pun very much intended). The Tabi walked so the rest of the weird footwear girlies could run. And sure, Crocs have covered some ground too, but their sartorial merit is still being hotly debated in the RUSSH Editor's group chat.

Now we’ve got the pony hair shoe trend and the gardening clog revival. In 2026, we're all about shoes that hybridise, scare off and, of course, that let the dogs run free. And if you're looking for some ugly shoe inspiration to add to your cart, look no further.

Curtsy Toes Toe Post Wedge

NikeSKIMS Rift Mesh

Loewe Emily Aqua Bootie

JW Anderson Leather Coil Slide

Birkenstock x Song For The Mute

Simone Rocha Faux Fur Grip Mule Heels

ALAÏA Black Thong Fishnet Sandals

Camper Kobarah

adidas CLIMACOOL Laced Shoes