Christopher Kane surprised his guests with his glamorous collection and pairing it with what has been tagged as "the world's ugliest shoes," or Crocs.
The British-owned shoes are making a revamp and are going into high-fashion with a new look as showcased during London Fashion Week. The new Crocs are embellished with mineral rhinestones and crystals in a variety of solid and marbled colors.
According to WWD, fashionistas will be able to purchase their own high-fashion clogs for more than $150 (while regular Crocs retail for around $35). They’ll be available at "a very select list of stores that Christopher Kane currently distributes to," Michelle Poole, Crocs’ senior vice president of global product merchandising, told the brand.
This fashion surprise seemed to get it right this time, finally getting the approval of fashion editors, models and bloggers.
High-Fashion Foam Clogs
Crocs Made a High-Fashion Debut at London Fashion Week
Trend Themes
1. High-fashion Crocs - Crocs are making a revamp and entering high-fashion by adding mineral rhinestones and crystals to a variety of solid and marbled colors.
2. Ugly Shoe Comeback - The release of high-fashion Crocs may indicate the return of 'ugly' shoes in the industry.
3. Designer Collaborations with High-volume Retailers - The collaboration between Christopher Kane and Crocs may signify a shift towards major designers creating collaborations with high-volume retailers.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion Retail - Crocs' rebrand may open doors for fashion retailers to sell 'ugly' but trendy shoes with high-profit margins.
2. Footwear Manufacturing - The addition of mineral rhinestones and crystals to Crocs may suggest a new direction for footwear manufacturing by adding embellishments to pre-existing styles.
3. Luxury Accessories - The high-fashion version of Crocs showcases a potential for luxury accessories, even with unconventional styles.