Creepers Are The 'Ugly Trend' This Fall, But What Are They Anyway?

In case you missed it: Creepers are back. Don't think you can pull 'em off? Think again. We put together a brief guide on how to wear the oft-criticized shoes like a total fashion pro. Don't worry, you can thank us later.

First things first: What on earth are creepers?

Creepers were originally defined as being chunky shoes with thick crepe soles and suede uppers. They were worn by soldiers in the desert during World War II and then popularized by those same soldiers, who wore them to nightclubs in London in the 1940s. Today, the unisex trend has been adopted by many designers, now employing all sorts of fabrications to make the shoes. From espadrille soles to patent leather uppers, this footwear fad has gotten a modern update. 

Are they really a trend now?

Yes, and they have been for some time now. Most recently we've seen the trend on the Alexander Wang and Alexander McQueen Fall/Winter 2015 runways, but they aren't the only designers who have taken to the ugly cool shoes. Prada notoriously revived them back in 2011, and Stella McCartney featured them on her models back in 2014. 

How can I make them work off the runway?

Believe it or not, creepers are actually really versatile. If you're worried they're going to make your look too punk or grunge, pair them with a feminine dress or tailored pants. But if you want to fully embrace the look, pair them with ripped denim and a leather jacket and we promise, no one will mess with you. Check out some stylish ladies on Lookbook.nu who are showing us how it's done.  

 

Credit: Lookbook.nu/septembrenell

Credit: Lookbook.nu/jussssie

Credit: Lookbook.nu/tatyanaakman

Photo credit: Lookbook.nu/thrillhunter

Photo credit: Lookbook.nu/fashionvinylsbyym

Where can I buy them?

(From L-R): La Corde Blanche Moccasins, $180; D'Acquasparta Moccasins, $148; Swear-London Laced Shoes, $75; Womens College Chunky Heel Lace Ups Creeper, $50; Purified Creepers Leather Lace-Up Shoes, $285; Stuart Weitzman The Pipekent Wedge, $445

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