Chunky sandals are popular, often minimalistic styles of open-toe footwear.[1][2] Chunky sandals feature thicker, more robust soles, often with platforms or exaggerated treads.[3] Built with thick soles and durable straps, sometimes adjustable straps often secured with hook-and-loop fasteners, they give support and stability on uneven terrains.[3]

History

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Chunky sandals emerged prominently in fashion during the 1990s. Influenced by alternative fashion scenes, they offered a bold aesthetic that contrasted with the sleek and minimalist designs.[4] Brands like Dr. Martens and Buffalo became one of the first to produce chunky sandals, incorporating thick soles and rugged designs.[5][6]

In the 2010s and 2020s, chunky sandals became popular again, being accompanied by the "ugly shoe" trend where unconventional and exaggerated footwear became fashionable.[3][7][8]

Design and materials

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Chunky sandals feature wide straps, varius design elements, thick sloes, etc.[2]

Types of Chunky sandals[9]

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  • Platform Sandals: Elevated soles that add uniform height across the footbed.[10]
  • Sport Sandals: Designed for outdoor activities, with thick soles and adjustable straps; examples include Teva and Chacos sandals.[11]
  • Dad Sandals: Characterized by their bulky appearance, velcro straps, and emphasis on comfort; popularized in recent fashion trends.[12][13]

In modern culture, chunky sandals have become a symbol of fashion trends that prioritize comfort and individuality over traditional beauty standards.[1]

Chunky sandals

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Chunky sandals have been used by fashion houses and designers seeking to make bold statements. Brands like Balenciaga, Prada, and Gucci have included chunky sandals in their collections, pairing them with both casual and high-fashion ensembles.[14] The sandals have been alsopopularized by celebrities and influencers.[15][16]

References

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  1. ^ a b Guides, Anna LaPlaca last updated in Buying (2022-02-11). "Minimalism Is Waning: 25 Chunky Sandals Already Defining Cool 2024 Style". WhoWhatWear. Retrieved 2024-10-24.
  2. ^ a b Guides, Lauren Tappan published in Buying (2024-04-05). "The Best Chunky Sandals Prove Minimalism Is Out". Marie Claire Magazine. Retrieved 2024-10-24.
  3. ^ a b c Cartner-Morley, Jess (2024-06-14). "Why the chunky hiking sandal is this summer's fashion choice". The Guardian. ISSN 0261-3077. Retrieved 2024-10-24.
  4. ^ Carlisle, Rodney P. (2009). Handbook to Life in America. Infobase Publishing. ISBN 978-1-4381-2699-9.
  5. ^ "The Best Dr Martens Sandals Dupes For Stylishly Stomping Into Summer". Eliza. 2023-07-07. Retrieved 2024-10-24.
  6. ^ Graves, Kathryn (2019-04-02). Fashioned By God: A 30-Day Devotional. BroadStreet Publishing Group LLC. ISBN 978-1-4245-5788-2.
  7. ^ Nesvig, Kara (2024-06-27). "BLACKPINK's Jisoo Joined the Chunky Sandals Trend". Teen Vogue. Retrieved 2024-10-24.
  8. ^ Gurevich, Margaret (2016). Back to Basics. Capstone. ISBN 978-1-4965-3261-9.
  9. ^ "We Tested 80 Sandals to Find the Most Comfortable For All Foot Conditions". Health. Retrieved 2024-10-24.
  10. ^ "The Most Comfortable Platform Sandals, According To A Stylist". Women's Health. 2024-05-22. Retrieved 2024-10-24.
  11. ^ Coughlin, Sara (2024-08-15). "I'm Staunchly Anti-Sandal, But I Make an Exception for Chacos". SELF. Retrieved 2024-10-24.
  12. ^ "7 best chunky dad sandals for summer 2024: Editor approved". HELLO!. 2024-06-21. Retrieved 2024-10-24.
  13. ^ Staff, Vogue (2024-06-06). "Karisma Kapoor unites style and comfort in her Chanel Dad sandals". Vogue India. Retrieved 2024-10-24.
  14. ^ Team, F. M. (2024-03-07). "27 Best Designer Slides for Summer 2024". footwearmagazine.com. Retrieved 2024-10-24.
  15. ^ "Shop the Chunky Sandals That Are All Over Your Instagram Feed". Harper's BAZAAR. 2020-07-29. Retrieved 2024-10-24.
  16. ^ Caroline, Parr (2024-05-11). "Helen Skelton's chunky sandals are the shoe of the summer". Woman and Home Magazine. Retrieved 2024-10-24.

Further reading

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  • O'Keeffe, Linda. Shoes: A Celebration of Pumps, Sandals, Slippers & More. Workman Publishing, 1996.
  • Choklat, Aki. Footwear Design. Laurence King Publishing, 2012