"The Dogs Are Barking, But So Am I" — An Editor Discusses the Most Controversial Footwear at Men's Paris…
You’re diving into Worn Weird, the newest monthly feature from Who What Wear UK, where acting deputy editor Rebecca Rhys-Evans highlights the whimsical realm of footwear. From split-toed designs to styles without soles (yes, really), she discusses the most "cult" and contentious pairs available for purchase. Envision PVC jelly footwear, furry finishes, thick wooden clogs, and other quirky items igniting intense discussions online. They might seem a bit absurd, possibly turn off some men (after all, what’s the point if not?), but that’s fashion for you, darling! This month, Rebecca explores the unusual shoe trends showcased at men's Paris Fashion Week for spring/summer 2027. With offerings like Saint Laurent's viral transparent pointed plastic dress shoes and Nike's new hybrid sneakers, there’s much to delve into. So let’s jump right in...
Paris Fashion Week for men has just concluded, and the standout takeaway, the topic everyone is discussing, is the footwear showcased. From Saint Laurent's transparent dress shoes to Setchu's heeled Geta clogs, along with Jaden Smith's second collection at Christian Louboutin, menswear has finally acknowledged that quirky footwear is trending, and I’m all for it.
Beginning with the most significant: Anthony Vaccarello's Saint Laurent presentation. Here are four words I never anticipated pairing: pointed clear polyurethane brogues. Available in various shades, from deep glossy burgundy to olive green and smoky black, with some featuring snakeskin accents, all boast the same ultra-pointed, elongated toe we've seen in women's collections for a few seasons, which many critics and commentators have compared to the Medieval poulaine styles from the 14th and 15th centuries. Included in this collection was a more classic version in the form of Chelsea boots (because, naturally, Vaccarello aims to cater to everyone!). The most subversive element of this footwear line was not primarily a shoe feature but the fact that each model's foot was fully exposed beneath the PVC upper. And without any socks! Just five bare toes crammed into each shoe in temperatures exceeding 35 degrees. This collection’s debut follows closely after Chanel's viral soleless sandals that practically declared the naked shoe as the latest trend. Is this Saint Laurent's more practical take on that trend? Is menswear finally catching on? Regardless, the chatter is loud, and so am I.
The wonderfully bizarre shoes didn’t end with Saint Laurent's transparent lace-ups. Christian Louboutin—designed by Jaden Smith—revealed a red 'shoe' (if it can be called that) that resembled a monster's paw rather than a typical sneaker, boot, or slip-on. Smith also elevated the dress shoe with a long front, a harsh square toe, and toe-like shapes on top. Nike showcased several new models for the upcoming spring season, presenting more hybrids that made 'sneakerinas' and 'snoafers' appear relatively outdated. The Air Force 1 has undergone a makeover, featuring a square toe, a plaid pattern, and a tan suede variant adorned with turquoise accents that might encourage John Wayne to retire his cowboy boots. Lastly, a special mention goes to Setchu, which dressed male models in its traditional Japanese Geta clogs, but instead of the usual flat sole, they featured a 'high heel' design. Men in heels—absolutely!
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"The Dogs Are Barking, But So Am I" — An Editor Discusses the Most Controversial Footwear at Men's Paris…
In her most recent Worn Weird column, editor Rebecca Rhys-Evans explores the significant men's shoe trends showcased at Paris Fashion Week for Spring/Summer 2027.