Fashion Law Journal
Would you pay thousands for a pair of sneakers that look like they’ve been through a dumpster fire? Or proudly rock a dress that seems three sizes too big? If you think fashion is all about looking polished and elegant, think again. The rise of “ugly” fashion—think Crocs, dad sneakers, and deliberately bizarre runway looks—proves that sometimes, the weirder, the better. But why do we love things that should, by all logic, repel us? The answer isn’t just about trends—it’s about psychology, rebellion, and the power of exclusivity. Let’s dive into why ugly fashion sells and the psychology behind why people such as choose looking unattractive or uncomfortable through a few trends.
Ugly fashion being sold is not a very huge disaster in the industry but if we do sit back and wonder about the mindset or the thought which goes behind a few trends such as- Oversized Clothes, Crocs, Dad Sneakers, Distressed Tees or even Fanny Packs to say the least, we will be amazed.
“There’s a psychology behind these seemingly unflattering trends. People like to be daring, express themselves through their clothes, show their personalities and/or make a statement. Ugly fashion makes a statement. It says I’m confident enough to choose fashion over fit, I’m ok with breaking the rules, I’m ok with letting my individuality shine through.”[1]
There’s something undeniably fascinating about how “ugly” fashion transforms from being ridiculed to being revered. To me, it’s a bold reminder that fashion isn’t just about looking good—it’s about feeling powerful in what you wear. The appeal of these unconventional trends isn’t in their beauty but in their audacity. When someone confidently steps out in oversized silhouettes, clunky shoes, or bizarre color combinations, they’re making a statement: I dress for myself, not for approval. That kind of confidence is magnetic, and in many ways, it’s what fashion should be about—personal expression over societal expectations.
At the same time, I think ugly fashion works because it challenges the idea that looking “put together” is the only way to be stylish. It’s refreshing to see people embrace exaggerated, awkward, or downright bizarre trends simply because they like them. It’s almost rebellious—choosing weirdness over perfection, individuality over blending in. And when enough people do it? It stops being weird and starts being iconic. That’s the magic of fashion: today’s ugly can be tomorrow’s must-have.
From Balenciaga’s $1,850 “destroyed” sneakers to Crocs making a high-fashion comeback, the rise of “ugly” fashion has puzzled many. Why do people willingly buy something unconventional, even unattractive? The answer lies in psychology, social influence, and the ever-changing nature of fashion trends.
Fashion has long been about breaking norms. What was once considered ugly—chunky dad sneakers, oversized silhouettes, or bizarre colour clashes—becomes desirable when it challenges mainstream aesthetics. Wearing “ugly” fashion signals confidence and individuality, making the wearer stand out in a world of uniform trends.
Ironically, the uglier and more bizarre an item is, the more exclusive it feels. High-end designers deliberately create controversial pieces to spark conversation and maintain their elite status. Think of the infamous Balenciaga “trash bag” pouch—outrageous, yet instantly viral. The exclusivity and absurdity drive up demand.
Many “ugly” trends resurface from past decades—platform sandals, baggy jeans, or tiny sunglasses. Nostalgia makes these once-questionable styles appealing, and wearing them with irony adds a layer of humor. People embrace these trends to show they’re in on the joke, elevating “ugly” fashion into a cultural statement.
When a bizarre fashion trend gains traction among celebrities and influencers, it creates a “fear of missing out” (FOMO). The more people talk about how weird something looks, the more others want to own it. Limited-edition drops and viral marketing intensify the urge to buy, transforming what was once ugly into a must-have.
Ugly fashion sells because it challenges norms, fosters exclusivity, and thrives on nostalgia and hype. What’s unattractive today could be a status symbol tomorrow—proving that in fashion, beauty is truly in the eye of the beholder.
Ugly fashion is a reminder that style isn’t just about fitting into conventional beauty standards—it’s about breaking them. It challenges the idea that clothes must always be flattering to be fashionable. Instead, it shifts the focus to self-expression, confidence, and individuality. When someone wears something unconventional, they aren’t just following a trend; they’re making a statement about their comfort in their own skin and their willingness to stand apart from the crowd.
More than just a passing fad, ugly fashion represents a deeper shift in the way we view clothing. It embraces the idea that fashion should be fun, experimental, and, most importantly, personal. What’s considered “ugly” today can become the next big thing, proving that beauty in fashion is fluid, ever-changing, and ultimately defined by the wearer. So, whether you love it or loathe it, one thing is certain—ugly fashion is powerful, and it’s here to stay.
[1] “UGLY” Fashion and Psychology Behind It! – JIJI MAJIRI
Author Name: Rukaiya Neemuchwala
