Can desert boots ever be chic? We fashion editors say yes – here’s how to style them

Anti-chic shoes are hot stuff. We’re talking stomp-worthy, platformed pillowy kicks that strike fear in the hearts of ballet pump lovers everywhere. 

The past few seasons have placed ‘ugly-chic’ footwear front and centre of the style radar – with Margiela Tabi’s still reigning supreme alongside finger shoes, platform clogs, and leopard print Crocs.

One silhouette we did not expect to bounce back with gusto? The humble desert boot. Characterised by a suede construction, a rounded toe, a crepe rubber base and an ankle length shape, desert boots have divided the fashion set since World War II, when soldiers wore them during desert campaigns. 

Inspired by the South African ‘velskoen’ boot, the design was later popularised by Clarks, whose Desert Trek and Desert Boot designs became iconic. Showcasing a rugged, earthy aesthetic that prioritised function over fashion, desert boots were adopted by the counterculture, becoming a staple piece among mod groups and within Jamaican reggae culture, a movement beloved by stars like Steve McQueen and Bob Dylan.

As for today? The crepes remain well-adored by both fashion girlies and Hackney hipsters alike, often styled with a pair of XL vintage jeans, a plaid shirt and a micro beanie. Extra points for a miniature moustache and singular hoop earring. 

However, despite our jesting, they are notoriously difficult to style. Whether you’re tapping into Coachella-approved festival fashion or opting for a more everyday aesthetic, we’re here to help. Discover how the H! Fashion editors would style their desert boots below. 

Clare Pennington, Editor

• Dress: Céleste Gem Jacquard Mini Dress, £79.00, SISTER JANE
• Socks: Tulle and Lace Socks, £10.00, CALZEDONIA
• Bag: Bonnie Medium Antiqued Leather Tote Bag, £2,520.00, PRADA
• Shoes: Wallabee EVO Shoe, £75.00, CLARKS

Tania Leslau, Fashion Features Editor

Molly Saunders, Creative Lead

• Cardigan: Mohair-Blend Cardigan, £95.00, COS
• Trousers: Jil Sander Pleated Trousers, £1,145.000, END.
• Bangles: Medium Rock Bangle (Green) £75.00, DINOSAUR DESIGNS, Wide Boulder Bangle, £515.00, DINOSAURS DESIGNS
• Shoes: Wallabee Brown Brush Off, £165.00, CLARKS

Lauren Ramsay, Deputy Digital Editor 

• Jacket: Cocoon Jakcet, £320.00, BA&SH
• Jeans: High-Rise Balloon Jeans, £49.99, MANGO
• Bag: Large Tote Bag, £139.00, & OTHER STORIES
• Shoes: Desert Suede Boots, £432.00, MYTHERESA

Toby Hawkes, Videographer

• Shirts: Promise Shirt, £400.00, OUR LEGACY, Lean Shirt, £300.00, OUR LEGACY
• Shorts: Pleated Wool Bermuda Shorts, £49.99, ZARA
• Shoes: Clarks Originals Desert Trek GORE-TEX, £154.99, CONSORTIUM

Olivia Harper-Lower, Digital Growth Manager

• Top: Textured Button Detail Peplum Top with Cotton, £36.00, M&S
• Skirt: We The Free Lainey Low-Rise Mini Skirt, £78.00, FREE PEOPLE
• Bandana: Knitted Wide Headband, £9.00, ASOS
• Bag: Longchamp Le Pliage Original Pouch, £85.00, JOHN LEWIS
• Shoes: Suede Desert Boots, £315.00, MAX & CO

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