What’s That Lurking in the Shadows of Footwear Fashions?
Have you heard of creepers? They have been around for a long time, but very few, except those with their fingers on a certain musical pulse, would have heard of them. This sounds a bit dodgier than it is; creepers are simply a type of footwear. They are popular amongst metal/Goth/alternative rock sort of musicians, but in recent months, have been spotted by the fashionista, and are consequently, making their way into the arena of mainstream fashion. This is rather unusual, because they are meant to express a certain anti-fashion movement, but not anymore; these are the shoes of choice for the cool kids of 2012.
How can you spot a creeper? They are really easy to spot because they have a completely unique appearance, and they do not look like any other type of footwear. The closest they resemble to anything is a platform, but even then, they are a little off. Creepers basically come with any style upper: brogues, oxfords, wingtips, plimsolls, pumps, loafers, etc. but, it is the soles that set them apart. The soles of creeper are huge, chunky and overstated. They, kind of, look like they are made of tyres. Thick, rubber soles – this is what distinguishes a creeper from other styles of footwear.
The original creeper shoes are a war shoe. They had the unusually high soles to make it easier to walk in harsh conditions. The feet are elevated, somewhat, from the earth, and so are kept dryer than they may have been. In heat, they are lifted away from the floor, which makes them cooler, and in winter, the opposite occurs. They are basically one of the most protective types of footwear, suitable for all terrains. These are the Tiger II of the footwear world. Now, they have been given the fashionista twist, and dang, do they look great. So great, in fact, that many of the world’s fashion leading celebrities are taking a bite of the apple. Amongst notable wearers of the creeper style shoes are Jessie J, Rihanna and Cher Lloyd. Their wacky sense of dress tells you all you need to know about this style of shoe. Give it a year or two and they will be a firm favourite on the high street, much like UGGs have been these last few years.
In terms of the sort of style of clothing that these shoes suit the sky’s the limit. This is because they come in a huge range of styles, as stated earlier, you will find brogue creepers, pump creepers, etc. The only rule, really, is to balance the chunkiness of the soles with skinny, well fitted clothes – this is what most of the fashionista do, although you can opt for styles such as rah-rah skirts, where there is some kind of fit (i.e. at the waist), but also a flare.
If you are interested in buying a pair of creepers, or you would like to have a look at a collection, just to see what they look like, then please browse the section at www.creepers.uk.com.