As someone who’s been interested in fashion for decades, I understand that trends are cyclical. But, there are some trends that I honestly never thought we’d see again. Crocs came out when I was in the fifth or sixth grade and everyone had to have a pair. However, as they ballooned in popularity, they quickly became a meme. Then, just as quickly as they came up, I, like many young trendsetters, wouldn’t be caught dead in a pair of Crocs.
I thought we’d seen the last of them, then a few years ago Balenciaga released their mega platform Crocs and now, Crocs are back in full swing. You can’t walk past a Crocs store in Manhattan without noticing a massive line that pretty much wraps around the block and big brands, as well as celebrities are collaborating with Crocs.
Nearly every subculture and group are warming back up to Crocs, including the goth crowd. If anything, we got a head start. Goth Crocs first blew up when a photo of a guy wearing them in an Auntie Annie’s Pretzels went viral—igniting the Internet’s fascination with this collision of subcultures.
The goth Crocs in this photo are largely attributed to Goth des Garçons, a brand which sells Crocs that have been modified with spikes, studs and chains. The classic pair retails for $160, but can be upgraded with a snazzy ankle chain.
There are other companies that sell their own versions of Goth Crocs, including Balenciaga and Crocs themselves. But in the spirit of goth and punk culture, one of the best ways to go about this trend is to do it yourself. Luckily, that’s never been easier.
If you’ve ever personally modified a denim or leather jacket, you understand the pain of hand studding these fabrics. They’re thick as hell! But, Crocs already have holes in them just waiting to be filled with spikes! And if spikes aren’t your style, you can always put pins, safety pins or chains into the holes. Plus, there’s plenty to work with when it comes to the ankle strap, whether that’s completely studding it out or replacing it with a metal chain. The options for innovation are endless.
If I haven’t sold you on goth Crocs yet, let me put it to you this way: goth Crocs are the summer version of your Doc Marten boots. Now before you get angry with me, hear me out. Yes, I know you can wear Doc Martens in the summer, but I don’t need to tell you that they can be very, VERY warm. Goth Crocs offer you the comfort (if not, even more comfort) that your Docs do and they certainly pass the bouncy soles test. Not convinced? Just take a look at some of our favorite goth Croc stylings we found on social media and tell me they don’t look badass.
