Celeb-loved fashion juggernaut Balenciaga have launched a new line of Crocs with a summery makeover which are set to be seen by the pool on many A-listers in months to come.
The ‘Balenciaga Crocs Pool’, slide sandals are the latest take on the classic ‘ugly shoe’ from the Paris Fashion House that have become a viral sensation despite their unconventional look.
With a distinctive open toe, and rounded platform sole the shoes cost a whipping £415 and come in black, white, yellow, pink and vivid green.
The ‘Balenciaga Crocs Pool’, slide sandals are the latest take on the classic ‘ugly shoe’ from the Paris Fashion House that have become a viral sensation despite their unconventional look
Available for both men and women, the first look at the footwear was shared by Balenciaga creative director Demna Gvasalia.
The Georgian-born designer posted a picture of the shoes to Instagram – with hundreds of fashion fans saying they can’t wait to get their hands on a pair.
Balenciaga, which is loved by the likes of Kim Kardashian and Justin Bieber, first collaborated with Crocs in 2018 causing shockwaves in the fashion world after sending models down the runway in Croc-like shoes at Fashion Week 2013.
Last year, they launched stiletto crocs, combining the classic resin shoe with a sturdy elevated heel in a variety of bright colours.
Available for both men and women, the first look at the footwear was shared by Balenciaga creative director Demna Gvasalia .
Balenciaga, which is loved by the likes of Kim Kardashian and Justin Bieber, first collaborated with Crocs in 2018 causing shockwaves in the fashion world after sending models down the runway in Croc-like shoes at Fashion Week 2013.
They were met with mixed reactions online where some Twitter users said the shoes were ‘painful’ and unnecessary, and others said they couldn’t wait to get their toes on a pair.
The same collection also includes rain boots with a platform sole, for those seeking something a bit more sturdy.
Crocs, launched in 2001 at Fort Lauderdale Boat Show in Florida, were initially designed to be worn on boats.
The odour-resistant resin coating made it a popular choice, and the company initially sold 200 pairs. It has now sold more than 300 million.
The shoes have ‘Balenciaga’ embossed on the front (left) and says ‘designed in colloboration with crocs’ on the bottom
To the horror of fashion directors, sales soared in 2006. Tim Gunn, a fashion consultant, told Time magazine at the time: ‘The Croc – it looks like a plastic hoof. How can you take that seriously?’
By 2009 Crocs was heading steadily towards bankruptcy after making a $159million loss on the previous year.
But they’ve faced a resurgence in recent years, through brand deals with fashion houses such as Balenciaga the company was able to head back towards profitability.
Social media users were shocked when high-end designer Balenciaga and comfy footwear brand Crocs revealed that they had teamed up on a stiletto high heel last summer
On social media, a handful of fashion fans who have purchased their own Balenciaga Croc Madame have shown them off
Last year, Academy Awards’ musical director Questlove sent fashion directors quaking when he wore a gold pair on the red carpet.
The company has long turned to celebrities to promote their footwear – which feature 13 holes on the tops and sides for ventilation.
In 2018, Crocs partnered with rapper Post Malone before working with Justin Bieber and Latin pop-star Bad Bunny.
The Academy Awards’ musical director Questlove (pictured) sent fashion directors quaking when he wore a gold pair on the red carpet
American rapper Post Malone has also worked with Crocs to design his own line of the footwear. The first collection, launched in November 2018, sold out in just 10 minutes
The new collections, which are said to be worn ‘pool side’ have a 5mm elevated sole arch – meaning it’s perfect for a dip in the water.
They’ve been met with mixed reviews online, with some saying they ‘love them’ and ‘can’t wait to try’ while others pointed out the high price.
‘The Balenciaga crocs open toe platforms are so good. But the price point isn’t making any sense. Really wish design team at crocs weren’t asleep for so long. They should have been made years ago! Without the Balenciaga collab,’ said one.
‘ I’m annoyed that I like these,’ added another.
‘Love them,’ said a third.
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