Comfort Meets Style: How To Wear Clogs Without Looking Dated

Clogs are no longer just the awkward, chunky shoes from the 90s. Here is how to effortlessly style the comfortable clogs for a chic wardrobe.

By NDTV Shopping Desk Published On: Sep 06, 2025 09:09 AM IST Last Updated On: Sep 06, 2025 09:09 AM IST
How To Wear Clogs In A Fresh, Stylish Way Without Making Them Look Like A Throwback.

How To Wear Clogs In A Fresh, Stylish Way Without Making Them Look Like A Throwback.

Clogs have been around for centuries, evolving from humble wooden footwear to high-fashion essentials that even celebrities can't get enough of. But here's the catch: styling clogs without looking like you've stepped out of a vintage photo album takes a bit of finesse.

Think of it like chai: timeless, versatile, and beloved by all, but only perfect when brewed just right. Whether you're slipping into them for a quick grocery run, brunch with friends, or a casual office day, clogs can be the perfect balance between comfort and style, if you know how to wear them.

Here's a style guide that blends practicality with a splash of personality, ensuring those clogs earn compliments instead of confused stares. Here is how to effortlessly style the comfortable clogs for a chic wardrobe.

Get easy ways to style clogs without looking outdated

Get easy ways to style clogs without looking dated; Photo Credit: Pexels

1. Know Your Clog Style

Before anything else, it's important to understand that clogs aren't just one kind of shoe. From chunky wooden soles to sleek leather slip-ons, the variety is endless. Think of it like choosing biryani; every region has its version, but it's still biryani.

Leather clogs are perfect for work or smart-casual looks, while rubber or foam clogs are your laid-back, rainy-day heroes. If you love experimenting, patterned or embroidered clogs can add character to even the simplest outfit. The key is to pick a style that aligns with your wardrobe. After all, buying a neon-green pair when your wardrobe is full of muted tones will only make them collect dust faster than mango season disappears.

2. Pair Them with the Right Bottoms

The secret to styling clogs lies in balance. Since clogs naturally have a bulky silhouette, pairing them with the right bottoms is crucial.

For a casual day, team them with straight-cut jeans or ankle-length trousers. Want a slightly polished look? Wide-leg pants or flowy palazzos create a nice contrast, giving you an effortlessly chic vibe. During the hotter months, clogs pair beautifully with breezy cotton skirts or even shorts, perfect for a relaxed weekend vibe.

Imagine this: a crisp white kurta, light blue straight jeans, and brown leather clogs. Minimal effort, maximum impact. And yes, it's perfect for that coffee run that somehow always turns into an impromptu catch-up session.

Also Read: 5 Best Crocs Deals: Stylish Clogs And Sneakers At 40% Off On Myntra

3. Dress for the Occasion

Clogs are versatile, but not every pair is meant for every setting.

Running errands at the local market? Foam clogs will keep your feet happy while you weave through stalls bargaining for fresh fruits at ₹60 a kilo. Heading for a semi-formal dinner? Opt for leather clogs with subtle metallic accents, paired with a linen shirt dress.

The trick is to match the vibe of the occasion. Clogs can easily swing from lazy-day footwear to stylish accessories, as long as you choose the right outfit partners. Avoid pairing beach clogs with formal wear, unless you want people wondering if you mistook a wedding for a pool party.

4. Play with Colours and Textures

Neutral tones like tan, black, and white are timeless choices, but experimenting with colours can elevate your clog game. Think muted pastels for brunch outings or deep jewel tones for evenings.

Textured clogs, braided leather, embroidered straps, or even metallic finishes, add depth and personality to an outfit. Imagine pairing deep maroon clogs with an earthy green kurta set; it's understated yet undeniably stylish.

If colour scares you, start small. Swap out plain black clogs for a beige pair, you'll be surprised how much more versatile they are. It's like adding just a pinch of masala to a bland curry, subtle, but game-changing.

Get easy ways to style clogs without looking outdated

Get easy ways to style clogs without looking outdated; Photo Credit: Pexels

5. Balance Comfort and Style

There's no point in owning the trendiest pair if they make your feet scream in pain by lunchtime. Always prioritise comfort when choosing clogs.

Look for cushioned insoles, breathable materials, and the right heel height. Wooden clogs may look stunning, but wearing them during a long metro ride can feel like stepping on pebbles with every step. Foam or soft leather options are ideal for all-day wear.

A great tip is to break them in at home before wearing them out. A quick walk around your balcony or while making that evening cup of chai ensures you avoid awkward limping in public.

6. Style Around Simplicity

When in doubt, keep the outfit simple and let the clogs do the talking.

Pair a monochrome kurta with classic leather clogs for that “effortlessly put-together” look. Or wear them with solid-coloured maxi dresses during summer, comfortable, breezy, and perfect for those weekend drives that somehow end at a roadside dhaba.

Less is often more. Remember, clogs already have a personality of their own. Overcomplicating the outfit can make the overall look feel forced, and you'll be left wondering why that mirror selfie isn't Insta-worthy.

7. Accessorise Smartly

Accessories can make or break your clog outfit. The key is harmony, nothing too overpowering, nothing too dull.

For casual outings, pair your clogs with a crossbody bag or a chic backpack. Think woven totes for summer days or sleek sling bags for evening hangouts. When wearing clogs to a more formal setting, minimalist jewellery, gold hoops or delicate chains, can instantly elevate your outfit.

A well-matched belt in leather tones can also tie the look together, especially if your clogs are in a similar shade. It's these small touches that make your ensemble look curated, even if you got dressed in a five-minute panic.

Get easy ways to style clogs without looking outdated

Get easy ways to style clogs without looking outdated; Photo Credit: Pexels

8. Experiment with Layers

Layering is an underrated way to style clogs.

Throw a denim jacket over a midi dress and pair it with neutral clogs for an easy yet chic look. In cooler months, clogs paired with oversized sweaters and tailored trousers strike that perfect balance between cosy and fashionable.

For a playful twist, try pairing patterned socks with open-back clogs, yes, socks and clogs can work, provided you keep the colours coordinated. It's a quirky nod to street style that doesn't feel try-hard.

9. Take Care of Your Clogs

Good style isn't just about wearing clogs, it's about maintaining them.

Leather clogs need regular polishing to retain their shine. For rubber clogs, a simple soap-and-water rinse keeps them fresh and odour-free. Wooden clogs, though rare, should be wiped with a damp cloth and occasionally conditioned to prevent cracks.

Proper care not only keeps them looking new but also extends their life. After all, if you've invested ₹3,000 in a pair, it deserves more attention than your neglected houseplants.

10. Make It Your Own

The beauty of clogs is their versatility. No two people will style them the same way, and that's where the magic lies.

Some prefer the minimal route with muted tones and sleek outfits, while others love going bold with patterns, bright colours, and quirky accessories. There are no hard rules here, only a guiding principle: confidence.

When you walk into that café or step out for an evening stroll, wear your clogs like they're an extension of your personality. Because at the end of the day, style isn't about following trends, it's about making them your own.

Products Related To This Article

1. Truffle Collection Women Clogs

2. FAUSTO Women Lightweight Laser Cut Clogs

3. Roadster The Lifestyle Co. Women Solid Regular Round Toe Clog Casual Shoes

4. Birkenstock Boston Thyme Regular Width Suede Leather Clogs

5. Tommy Hilfiger Women Solid Clogs

Clogs are like that classic Bollywood song: timeless, adaptable, and always capable of surprising you. From morning errands to dinner dates, they can transition seamlessly, provided you know how to pair them.

The trick lies in finding balance between comfort and style, subtlety and statement, tradition and trend. Whether you're slipping into sleek leather clogs for the office or pairing foam ones with your breezy summer outfit, remember to wear them with confidence. After all, fashion is less about rules and more about how you make it yours, and with clogs, you're already halfway there. 

Disclaimer: The images used in this article are for illustration purposes only. They may not be an exact representation of the products, categories, and brands listed in this article.

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