Your Guide to Buying Womens Clogs

Clogs used to be characterized by closed toes, open heals, and wooden soles. However, times have changed and now clogs are referred to as any shoe with a platform heel, thick soles, and the closed toes and open heels. Mules and clogs are often confused for being interchangeable. However, the difference between mules and clogs is that mules can have any type of heel including stilettos. There are a few select clogs that do have closed heels, though. These types of clogs are designed for women in professions that have to be on their feet all day and are commonly seen in the medical field.

Clogs were in high style in the 1970s but their recent appearances in popular fashion magazines has brought the trend back. Clogs add attitude and volume to an outfit. Their bulkier build makes them stand out and be noticed rather than be discretely tucked away under a pair of trousers. They are also versatile in that they can be worn in all seasons. They are warm for the winter but they also look perfect with a summer dress. This guide will discuss the history of clogs, how to find clogs that fit properly, types of clogs, material options, how to wear them, and where to buy them.

History of Clogs
Clogs have their beginnings in cultures around the world and can be dated back as far as the 1200s though evidence points to them being around as far back as ancient Greece. Those that originated in Europe were chiseled out of a block of wood. Around 700 years ago, these shoes had their beginnings as protective footwear for farmers, factory workers, and fishermen before turning into a cultural tradition. Contrary to popular thought, the shoes did not start out as solid wood. They began with a leather strap that was tacked onto a wooden sole and then eventually switched to being entirely wood. The wooden shoes are claimed to be cool in the summer, warm in the winter, and moisture absorbent.

Today, they are mostly a piece of history and culture in European countries. They are seen at cultural festivities such as clog dancing, they are used for decoration, and they are still used in traditions such as when Dutch men give their new fiances a pair of wooden shoes.

Selecting Clogs
Clogs are basic, straightforward shoes. Their variations take place mostly in materials and styles. However, there are a few different types of clogs to choose depending on the look the wearer is trying to achieve. The chart below lists several types of clogs as well as their optional materials and whether they are intended for casual, dressy, of professional wear.

How to Wear Women's Clogs
Clogs are a great addition to an outfit that needs some character. They are bold and draw attention to themselves. Because of this, they go well with outfits that can balance them out. Shirts that are billowy, adorned with features like frills, or are layered compliment the shoes. Consider wearing kimono, dolman sleeved, or wrapped shirts with the clogs.

With shorts, skirts, or dresses, clogs are usually worn with bare legs and feet. Some clogs can be worn with tights to dress up their look. Pantyhose, however, are too formal. Something to keep in mind with clogs is that they can easily make small calves look smaller. Women with petite calves should consider wearing smaller clogs.

Slacks and jeans can both be paired up with clogs. For a business look, clogs with darker heels and leather material can be worn with slacks. To create a semi-dressy outfit, wear dark jeans with dressy clogs and a satin shirt that has a belt around the waist. Pearls would add a finishing touch.

Lastly, wear larger jewelry or accessories with clogs. Necklaces that are long with large beads, wide bracelets, or scarves look classy when combined with these shoes.

Where to Shop for Women's Clogs
Since women's clogs are in style, they can be found at brick-and-mortar locations such as department stores, women's clothing stores, outlets, and specialty shoe stores. However, clogs are just one of the many types of shoes available so it is difficult for stores to have a large selection of them. For this reason, many women turn to places where they are able to find a large selection of clog shoes like online at eBay. On the eBay website, there are clog shoes of all types, styles, and sizes. The nearly endless selection of clogs and the quick purchasing process makes eBay a go-to source for many ladies.

5 Summer Shoes Every Woman Should Own

When buying clothing and accessories for summer fashion, women should make sure to consider fashionable and comfortable shoes for the summer season. They need to keep in mind all of the activities they may doing during this season and buy shoes accordingly. Our recommendations below include 5 of the most popular and versatile summer shoes every woman should own.

1. Ballerina Flats
Inspired by the slippers worn by ballerinas, ballerina flats feature a flat heel. Very light, these shoe types also expose much of the top of the foot. Also made from a variety of materials, more formal versions of these flats have ribbons and ruffles. These are great to add to any summer outfit and can work with everything from shorts to sundresses. They can also be worn on more formal occasions as well. Ballerina flats are very versatile.

2. Sandals
Sandals designs typically have an outsole secured to the foot through the use of buckles and straps. The toes and a majority of the foot are exposed when wearing sandals. The heel is also typically secured with a strap. Sandals can be made of a variety of materials, but are usually made of leather. Sandals can be worn with many different summer outfits and are appropriate for the beach, picnics, and other outdoor events. There are both casual types of sandals and more dressy sandals for different occasions.

3. Pumps
Pumps, also known as high heels, have an extended heel of at least two inches or more. Most have closed backs and no laces, buckles, or straps. Some of the summer pumps also have a variety of toe types, ranging from open toed, to close toed, to every type of toe in between. Having a pair of summer pumps can allow a woman to be prepared for summer weddings and more formal events. They are also appropriate for the office during the summer as well.

4. Clogs
Clogs are shoes that typically have an open back and a totally enclosed front and toe area. The heel is typically a platform type or a wedge. Originally made from wood, modern clogs are made from a variety of materials. Clogs can be the go-to shoes for summer around the house and for outings to the mall and other more casual locations. They are easy to slip on, and they are very comfortable and easily match with any casual outfit.

5. Wedges
Wedges are akin to high-heeled shoes, except the heel extends the length of the heel as one solid piece. The vamp, or upper, is also typically open like a pump, with no laces, buckles or straps. Wedges are a great option for more dressed-up occasions and events. They are also great when a woman wants to add a little height without wearing pumps or heels during the summer months.