The Dad Shoe Phenomenon

Also known as ugly sneakers or chunky sneakers, the "Dad Shoe," has been a fashion staple for three years now, even with memes like this:

While its hard to pinpoint when the trend actually started, traces of the trend go back to

Aug. 12, 2017, when Kanye West and Adidas released the Yeezy 700 Boost Wave Runner, which sported a thick midsole and chunky silhouette. After their initial release, the shoes received mixed reviews. But the shoe went on to mold 2018 shoe trends, and it shaped them with a large size in mind. 

But hold up. We can't talk about the dad shoe without talking about its ACTUAL origins. The dad shoe originated from the American footwear brand New Balance, who launched its 990 series in 1982.

The shoe is now in it's fifth iteration as the New Balance 990v5, shown in the ad below.

Love them or hate them, the chunky sneaker has made a name for itself because it's not just grilling dads wearing these cushioned, comfortable sneakers anymore. High end designers took the design and ran with it, so many celebrities and fashion enthusiasts snatched up a pair. But this style of sneaker really can be found anywhere, from secondhand thrifting to your local Walmart to Balenciaga. Walmart charges around $17.87 for a pair, whereas Balenciaga charges $975. Do with this information what you will.

Personally, I love chunky sneaker fashion. I have yet to buy a pair of my own, but I plan on it! Chunky sneakers can go with a casual look, but I love seeing it be paired with a more professional outfit, which can turn an outfit from business to really biz cas.

Examples of Casual Chunky Sneaker Looks

Examples of Chunky Sneakers paired with Biz (extra emphasis on the casual) Cas fits

All outfit images are from Pinterest or are linked

What do you think? Would you wear theses sneakers? Do you already own a pair? I hope these outfit ideas have opened your eyes to how cool these shoes are and have given you some inspiration!

Happy Fashion Friday!

Arrivederci,

Brianna