Clever clogs: The evolution of the Croc

by Metropol | September 3, 2025 2:02 pm

Metropol editor Nina Tucker investigates… are Crocs cool again?

I didn’t want to believe it either. That was, until deputy editor Tamara Pitelen and I were in Merivale research-gathering – otherwise known as window shopping – and there they were. A pair of sparkling, embellished, platform Crocs sitting on the shelf of a reputable retail boutique. Shock, horror – or was it? Did we love them or hate them? Were we really so Croc-judgemental?

Crocs burst into the sartorial scene largely when consumer preferences shifted after lockdowns. An ergonomic, easy-wear design, they became a popular choice for comfort. The brand answered by adapting their styles and charms for the mainstream market, positioning themselves as an it-shoe through collaborations with Balenciaga and various celebrities.

Today, we can recite them worn by everyone from Drew Barrymore to Michelle Yeoh, and New Zealand’s Moana Pasifika Super Rugby team.
Justin Bieber even wore a pair on the red carpet. If New Zealand Fashion Week is anything to go by, Crocs’ entry has been accepted. The shoe earned some serious street cred at the event in late August, firming up as a footwear favourite. Here’s a snippet of how they were styled. What do you think? Embrace or disgrace? Let’s discuss. Head to our Facebook post and join the Croc conversation.

Street style: Crocs came out to play at New Zealand Fashion Week’s opening night, photographed by Ronald Rieza.

Source URL: https://metropol.co.nz/clever-clogs-the-return-of-the-croc/