Europe has embraced our bogan shame. Why the humble ugg should be taken to the streets
Got cold feet in this bone-chilling winter weather? The answer is something many of us have snubbed our noses at for decades: ugg boots.
I spent the last European winter swanning about Copenhagen streets in my Australian sheep-skin boots, and it was like wearing a hug on each foot. It made me feel joyous and invincible in the Arctic wind and darkness. Durable and water-resistant with non-slip plastic soles, they were perfect in the snow, rain and sleet.
Danes didn't bat an eyelid – whether you're talking about the trademarked UGGS or other sheep-skin shoes, they fit perfectly into their concept of hygge (cosiness). They have a saying: 'There is no such thing as bad weather, just poor clothing choices.'
And according to British Vogue, my choice of winter footwear was very on trend. There are frequent ugg sightings in the fashion bible's London HQ because 'every staffer following a strict Prada diet ... has wavered when faced with the plush inner of an ugg'. The style boffins even elevated the surfer girl go-to shoe to formal-wear, with the headline: ' Ugg boots are the ultimate alternative party shoe '.
However, when I sent my Australian friends photos of a recent ugg-wearing adventure across rainy Ireland, they reacted with a mixture of mortification, shock and disappointment. If I didn't live on the other side of the world, I'm sure they would have staged an intervention.
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'Anyone who ventures beyond their immediate fence line with them on is a grub,' one friend insisted.
Another declared it was uncouth to wear uggs outside because they lack style. Did I know that Russian women wear high heels in -35-degree Siberia? Toughen up sweetheart, I was told.
While the rest of the world has fallen head over heels for uggs, I don't understand why these snuggly, practical winter shoes are such a taboo in their country of origin.
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Homes with inviting outdoor spaces typically sell faster and attract higher offers, particularly in family-oriented suburbs. When planning, choose materials that complement the style of your home and can withstand the Aussie climate. A hardwood deck, for example, not only looks great but also stands the test of time when maintained properly. In many parts of Australia, the climate can be unforgiving especially during the summer. That's why adding shade & protection from the rain isn't just a nice-to-have, it's a necessity. A wooden gazebo offers welcome protection from the elements, giving your family and guests a place to gather, relax, or fire up the BBQ in comfort. Compared to building a full patio with a roof extension, gazebos are far more cost-effective and much quicker to install. They strike the perfect balance between function and flexibility, all while adding a touch of style to your backyard. Compared to metal or plastic structures, wooden gazebos tend to blend more naturally with garden landscaping, and can even boost perceived property value thanks to their premium appearance. Plus, they're incredibly versatile. Use one as a shaded dining area, an outdoor yoga space, or even a place for the kids to play out of the sun. You don't need to go full "Better Homes and Gardens", but a tidy, cohesive garden layout goes a long way. Smart landscaping makes your backyard feel bigger, more usable, and easier to maintain which are all key factors that buyers look for. Simple ideas that add impact: Properties with attractive, low-maintenance landscaping can fetch up to 20 per cent more at sale than those with unkempt or unusable yards. It might not sound glamorous, but storage is one of the most overlooked (yet valued) additions to any home. Garden sheds, built-in bench storage, or even discrete shelving can keep outdoor clutter under control. 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