To UGG or not to UGG...

[Kaleigh]

HA!!!! Yes I am in California Dreamer, Northern Calif and thank you Lisa, you rock in yours too. xoxoxox

Thanks Miss Linda... No I am on the East coast.. Here everyone wears them, young , and old.. It's cold here dammit...I want to be comfy...

 

[movie zombie]

maybe its a california thing: in our area, you're strange if you don't have a pair of uggs.

MoZo

 

[decodelighted]

Yeah ... I mean http://www.uggaustralia.com/ProductDetails.aspx?gID=w&productID=1911&model=Broome II and http://www.uggaustralia.com/ProductDetails.aspx?gID=w&productID=1917&model=Jillianare certainly no BIRKENSTOCKS.

haha.. I wanted to also say what the heck makes those UGGS other than the brand name? They are a totally different *make* not only style. Is it the same sole? The same shearling inside? Why is that called an UGG at all. It is like me saying, "I hate high heals!" and you saying "No no, you don't, look at these they are so not the way you think of high heels!" And then you post a photo of a flat shoe

Both of those I selected contain the same YUMMY PLUSH REAL SHEARLING INTERIOR which is the hallmark of UGG joy. Some of their more tailored riding style boots are lined with leather instead. You have to look at the pictures or read the further description to know for sure.

And I don't think your comparison is apt. Folks say "I love Jimmy Choos" and MEAN stilettos ... but they also carry dead flat sandals. Sure there's a vernacular to the first thing that jumps to mind when you say a brand -- but that's why I'm urging you UGG nay sayers to take a closer look. There's a way to ENJOY all the perks of UGGS without the clunkier styling that might be turning you OFF.

I like both kinds myself. I owned a pair of the original clunkers in choc brown == LOVE LOVE LOVED them for years -- and only lost them when a shoe repair shop went out of biz w/o telling anyone. Still miss them. Since then I've had tall suede black boots with non-UGG like stitching in the front ... black leather motorcycle boot UGGS ... and a TERRIBLY ugly cream colored leather snow boot type of monstrosity that work like NO OTHER for messy snow tromping shenanigans. Two of mine were purchased at LAST CALL or SAKS clearance sales at big discounts (because they were so odd for UGG probably) ... but my main tall pair were full price.

This year I really really want slippers. But I'm considering getting the mini classic boot AS "house shoes" -- to keeps me ankles toasty, but have slip on ease also. YUMMO!!!!!!!

 

[Yimmers]

I think some of you ESTEEMED ladies have not checked out the UGGs site in this decade. Generalizations about the "Classic" varieties aside -- I fail to see how anyone can paint the entire line with a single brush. (i.e. -- "under 25 only" or "gross"). They carry DOZENS of different styles of shoes/boots: from preppy to urban to funky to collegiate to dare-i-say sophisticated.

Check them out! Join us. It feels oh so good in here.

Agreed. Join us. We have Kool-Aid!

Okay, I am part of the Uggs is ugly crowd. I checked out nordy's. There is a cute pair of white Uggs wedge leather boots with a fold down knit top. Those are tight! I would definitely wear those.
http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/3093450?origin=category&resultback=2394

As for the standard ones...only at home. You are talking to someone who will probably wear heels as long as she can even when she is pregnant. Yes, I am that stubborn.

 

[decodelighted]

Oh Dreammmmer .... I found the uggs for you. http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/3060588?origin=category&resultback=6354.

 

[junebug17]

I think some of you ESTEEMED ladies have not checked out the UGGs site in this decade. Generalizations about the "Classic" varieties aside -- I fail to see how anyone can paint the entire line with a single brush. (i.e. -- "under 25 only" or "gross"). They carry DOZENS of different styles of shoes/boots: from preppy to urban to funky to collegiate to dare-i-say sophisticated.

Check them out! Join us. It feels oh so good in here.

Agreed. Join us. We have Kool-Aid!

Okay, I am part of the Uggs is ugly crowd. I checked out nordy's. There is a cute pair of white Uggs wedge leather boots with a fold down knit top. Those are tight! I would definitely wear those.
http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/3093450?origin=category&resultback=2394

As for the standard ones...only at home. You are talking to someone who will probably wear heels as long as she can even when she is pregnant. Yes, I am that stubborn.

Ok, now I'm going to have to pray my daughter doesn't see these. They're adorable!

 

[bee*]

I was never a fan of them until I went to Australia and saw that they were such good value over there so I bought 2 pairs and have been living in them since. They are so comfortable. I'd love to get another pair now.

 

[Dreamer_D]

Oh Dreammmmer .... I found the uggs for you. http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/3060588?origin=category&resultback=6354.

LOL! Pefect!

But here is my point expemplified... if UGG is just a comfort brand with many styles (which I assume you are suggesting) then that is one thing. But the iconic boot is more in question here. And when there is an iconic look that a brand becomes KNOWN for, I feel like there is some cred to it being the best of that style on the market. But why would I buy an UGG shoe in another style, when there are so many other comfort brand companies doing similar shoes out there? If I want stilletos I go for Jimmy Choo. If I want flats, ummm... no Jimmy Choo required. Maybe if I like a particular shoe, but he is not exactly known for that. So if I am going to pay a brand premium I want to buy the item they are known for. Otherwise, gimme a good reason to pay for the name?

Maybe moot in this case, I have no idea what the brand premium is for UGG and I also have no idea how comfortable the non-classic boots are. Just for you I will try them on next time I see them

I do think it is odd to waver from the tried and true -- surely the comfort comes in large part from the soft outer and larger foot shape? In a more stylish boots must sacrifice some comfort.

 

[Miscka]

I didn't mean to post and disappear, sorry! Crazy few days.

Dreamer - I am 26 Those sequin ones you posted were apparently one of Oprahs favorite things this year.

Yimmers - I too am a heel devotee, and yes I wear them while pregnant (so far) but let me tell you that is way harder than it sounds. I think its the weight distribution but idk.

Monnie - you hit the nail on the head. It's like they have been around too long now to really be "trendy" or "out"...something about them is making people continue to wear them.

Deco - some of those styles you posted are amazing!!! I am definitely going to have to look around some more.

FWIW, I didn't necessarily mean UGG the brand. In fact, I think there are some copyright battles over the brand since the word is a term for a style of boot in Aus. Good to know some of the things you guys mentioned about other brands and things to consider. I would like an aus-made brand if possible.

When I posted this thread I was considering a pair of the knee-high ones from EMU with the ribbon at the top of the back, which I saw for $59 and literally yesterday the price jumped back up to $109!!! I had not realized it was a special or I would have jumped on it!

Thanks for all the replies! I am adding them to my Christmas list I can't wait!! My toes are going to be so warm and toasty!

 

[decodelighted]

Oh Dreammmmer .... I found the uggs for you. http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/3060588?origin=category&resultback=6354.

LOL! Pefect. But here is my point expemplified... if UGG is just a comfort brand with many styles (which I assume you are suggesting) then that is one thing. But the iconic boot is more in question here. And when there is an iconic look that a brand becomes KNOWN for, I feel like there is some cred to it being the best of that style on the market. But why would I buy an UGG shoe in another style, when there are so many other comfort brand companies doing similar shoes out there? If I want stilletos I go for Jimmy Choo. If I want flats, ummm... no Jimmy Choo required. Maybe if I like a particular shoe, but he is not exactly known for that. So if I am going to pay a brand premium I want to buy the item they are known for. Otherwise, gimme a good reason to pay for the name? Maybe moot in this case, I have no idea what the brand premium is for UGG and I also have no idea how comfortable the non-classic boots are. Just for you I will try them on next time I see them I do think it is odd to waver from the tried and true -- !surely the comfort comes in large part from the soft outer and larger foot shape? In a more stylish boots must sacrifice some comfort.

All the UGG boots I have do have a larger foot shape so I can't really vouch for the sleeker styles in that particular realm of comfort vs. the tried & true styles --- BUT ... for ME ... the comfort is largely in the plush, delicious, sumptuous shearling interior which is typically worn WITHOUT SOCKS. So its a sensual kind of thing. And a warmth kind of thing. Because some of the sleeker boots DO have the total shearling interior (you have to check boot to boot for that & shoe to shoe, to be certain) -- I'm guessing that sensual, decadent, totally delicious FEELING would be present there too.

I've tried other brands. Really low end with fake sheepskin ... mid range with real sheepskin ... but for me nothing has compared to the silky smooth, thick, long-lasting plush of UGGS. So far, I'm only a boot person. Different companies do do different things well. I buy Dansko clogs for instance. They just work. Why mess w/it. Just think that MAYBE some folks who don't dig the total classic UGG look could possibly find a portion of the UGG bliss in a more fashionable style.

Maybe its something you just have to feel to believe? (I hope you dooooooo try 'em next time you see 'em!!! Is there any way I can get Ugg sales kick backs? JUST KIDDING!!!!!!!!!)

 

[Dreamer_D]

Dreamer - I am 26 Those sequin ones you posted were apparently one of Oprahs favorite things this year.

Then you are safe, unlike Linda and Lisa and Deco who clearly need What Not to Wear to intervene KIDDING ladies of course, I know you are cooler than me.

And Oprah liked the sequines eh? Well, I have been thinking she is slipping lately and there is proof. What is next, sequined Birkenstocks??

 

[Dreamer_D]

Maybe its something you just have to feel to believe? (I hope you dooooooo try 'em next time you see 'em!!! Is there any way I can get Ugg sales kick backs? JUST KIDDING!!!!!!!!!)

Not from an online forum

I also have Dansko clogs, though the sandal style not the clog style. So comfy.

I think sweaty feel rules out no socks for me.

 

[beaujolais]

I think they are beautiful.
I'm an outdoorsy type.
---
Outdoorsy/L.L. Bean type people can still be attractive, though.

 

[Deia]

I've posted in this thread but my post got looked over I think! I just wanted to reiterate that although comfortable (by having soft plush stuff in them) they have no support for your feet!!! It amazes me that this doesn't occur to most people... am I the only one who sees girls walking along on the SIDE of their uggs?? A flat footbed does nothing for you unfortunately....

 

[vintagelover229]

I have only 1 pair of Uggs and they make my ankle socks slide down under my feet when I walk. Then I saw these (for slightly more) and they are hand made and beautiful!

http://www.sheepskinandthings.com/Mukluks-Fur-Mukluks-Short-Mukluks-Tall-mukluks-Ankle-mukluks_c26.htm;jsessionid=E5A5A0471BC6DABC06712CE486FB3C5C.qscstrfrnt02

 

[Miscka]

I have only 1 pair of Uggs and they make my ankle socks slide down under my feet when I walk. Then I saw these (for slightly more) and they are hand made and beautiful!

http://www.sheepskinandthings.com/Mukluks-Fur-Mukluks-Short-Mukluks-Tall-mukluks-Ankle-mukluks_c26.htm;jsessionid=E5A5A0471BC6DABC06712CE486FB3C5C.qscstrfrnt02

 

[MonkeyPie]

I can hardly wait to get mine. I always thought they were hideous, but now my DH works for Victoria's Secret and can get them for $25 at the associate sales. So I am getting at least one pair come mid-December

 

[MonkeyPie]

I've posted in this thread but my post got looked over I think! I just wanted to reiterate that although comfortable (by having soft plush stuff in them) they have no support for your feet!!! It amazes me that this doesn't occur to most people... am I the only one who sees girls walking along on the SIDE of their uggs?? A flat footbed does nothing for you unfortunately....

You would have to wear them every single day for a very long time for them to do lasting damage. Most people don't wear them except in the winter, and then only occasionally.

 

[MishB]

I've posted in this thread but my post got looked over I think! I just wanted to reiterate that although comfortable (by having soft plush stuff in them) they have no support for your feet!!! It amazes me that this doesn't occur to most people... am I the only one who sees girls walking along on the SIDE of their uggs?? A flat footbed does nothing for you unfortunately....

You would have to wear them every single day for a very long time for them to do lasting damage. Most people don't wear them except in the winter, and then only occasionally.

My 14 year old cousin used to wear them to school and back (in Colorado). She slipped in the snow, twisted her foot and ended up breaking a couple of bones in her foot. She is a competitive ski racer and figure skater, and will now probably have a lifetime of foot pain and trouble. There was talk that she showed a lot of promise for a professional sporting career.

Personally I hate uggs, I think they are hideous. Warm, maybe but they make my feet sweat and after a while they really start to stink. There are a lot of warm winter boots out there that are also waterproof and have good tread and foot support.

Last but not least, here in Australia, they started off designed as winter house shoes or slippers, to wear them outside of the house has a certain stigma. Sort of like a wife-beater singlet for women, if you get my drift. Get thee to a trailer park.

 

[iLander]

I totally don't want to encourage any Ugh-type boots (ick!) but I just saw these, Jimmy Choo's version:

http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductArray.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374306417294&use_parent=2&[email protected]&[email protected]&site_refer=EML3099A

 

[PinkTower]

I think they are ugly...

My daughter is a little fashionplate. 16yo. They wear the sort of slouchy suede microfiber equestrian style boots now. She got hers at Target. They will not wear UGGS. Someone, TGal, I think, said they are great for house shoes in Australia. I think that is sort of the sentiment about them now. For school, it makes one appear to walk like Shreck.

 

[charbie]

coming from the midwest and in the middle of the worst december i can remember, i finally caved and bought some uggs last week.

ive worn them every single day since they were purchased for my 1/2 hr commute to work, and they have been worth every.single.penny. i bought the tall chestnut with three buttons up the side, and i'm soooooo happy i did. i even bought the care kit for them.

so thank you all for this thread/suggestion. my feet are forever gracious.

 

[allycat0303]

I don't own any uggs.

BUT I'm in the minority here because I find them SUPER CUTE. Really, I love it when girls wear them with a pair of leggings or tight jeans. It looks so young, relaxed and funky! I'm surprised that so many here find them ugly. My sister wears them, she has this cute pair of black knit uggs and everytime I see them, I wish I had the nerve.

Definitely would wear them!!

 

[anitabee]

uh, i must be in the minority here BUT i think they're on their way out. anytime a style is so completely out of the norm, it seems to have a shelf life. i dunno. since i never got into the whole uggs thing in the first place, i've decided to pass. no uggs for me, thank you very much.

i agree with an earlier poster... i see so many feet on angles and unsupported. they just look so schlumpy.

also, i'm a high school teacher and every second kid wears them or knockoffs and i think uggs have hit their saturation point. i'm simply over-ugged!

 

[Mara]

I am normally not an UGG fan...but I confess that lately I like the way the taller ones look with jeggings. I've been eyeballing them. and I will def be getting J some when he is a little older. I have seen a few kids wearing them and they are awesome with the rain here, they are slip on and keep their feet warm. I have some little fakey Gymboree ones that I put on him which are so cute... but they fall off a lot.

One thing, since you are preg... my feet got a little swollen, not too badly but about maybe 1/4 size larger, and it took a while for them to shrink back down. But some of the shoes I wore while preg got stretched out. Just FYI! I wouldn't buy anything expensive for wear while preg unless you know you MAY only wear it then.

 

[Agent P]

No Uggs for me either. DH thinks I am crazy that I also never wear sneakers/tennis shoes. Just not my thing and fortunately we really don't live in an area where we need winter gear. I was surprized to hear that Uggs are not weather proof for as much $$$ as they are? If I get sent up north for work after the holidays I may be needing your alls help for staying warm and dry and still maintaining some fashion dignity. LOL

 

[decodelighted]

I am firmly pro UGG ... but I did notice these this week for the first time. http://www.koolaburra.com/?kwmid=14...&match_type=&gclid=CK2Fnbbe8qUCFY9x5Qod7zpQng I guess the fringey wedge ones are big with the young celeb mom club. Don't think I could carry them off ... but I do like a few of the styles.

 

[VRBeauty]

coming from the midwest and in the middle of the worst december i can remember, i finally caved and bought some uggs last week.

ive worn them every single day since they were purchased for my 1/2 hr commute to work, and they have been worth every.single.penny. i bought the tall chestnut with three buttons up the side, and i'm soooooo happy i did. i even bought the care kit for them.

so thank you all for this thread/suggestion. my feet are forever gracious.

Congratulations, Charbie! Enjoy them!

 

[diva rose]

They are ugly but they are so comfortable!

 

[Miscka]

Well I told both DH and my mother that I wanted the knee-high EMU ones with the lace on the back of the top, we will see! They are sold out now so SOMEONE better have bought them! DH swears up and down that Mom did not and that he did not want to, but I am holding out hope. They both like to throw me off since I am so nosey.

Monkey - um if you want to combine that order let me know! Hahaha, what a sweet deal! Good for A, is he liking it there?

Mara good point on the sizing. Idk how that will play out but I figured at least it would be a more forgiving style for fluctuations. So far I don't think I have swollen much but I'm not sure.

I also considered http://www.6pm.com/product/7680105/color/3 to wear to work. Deco inspired me on the non-suede looks!