
28 Comfy Shoes For Your Next Trip
Some super breathable on-and-off mesh sneakers to keep your toes cool as a cucumber and help you spend less time wrestling with laces and more time actually enjoying your day.
Promising review: "I love these shoes! They are comfortable, affordable, and look great, which is hard to find in a good tennis shoe these days. I have a wider foot, so the wide-size options are excellent. I wear a thicker sock, which works. Great for gym workouts, walking dogs, and to wear going out if you don't want a boot. I always add insoles, but they have a nice cushion. For the price and style, this is a great gift for teens, kids, parents, and grandparents, which is rare!" —Frantastic74Get them from Amazon for $23.99+ (available in sizes 5–13, including wide options, and 32 colors).
A versatile pair of Chaco sandals that provide *superior* arch support, meaning you'll be happily traipsing about during your travels without racking up blisters or sore feet. They also clean well and easily from mud and water, so take 'em on all your outdoor adventures, too.
A pair of Chelsea boots to not only instantly elevate any outfit in your travel wardrobe, but they're also specially designed to absorb impact which means less tired, uncomfortable toes. No pain, ALL gain.
Water-resistant Dr. Scholl's slip-on sneakers that make airport security a breeze with their easy on-and-off design. These come in *tons* of adorable prints and styles, so fair warning, you may want to buy several pairs.
Blondo Villa ankle booties which are not only waterproof (which makes them ideal for rainy destinations), but they're totally Instagrammable and perf for wandering chic city streets while shopping for souvenirs.
Birdies Starling flats that don't require a pesky break-in period, in addition to being absolutely gorgeous to look at. With a whopping seven layers of cushion plus arch and heel support, you're guaranteed to feel great while looking stunning for the camera in all your travel photos.
Cushionaire slides so freakin' comfy you'll NEVER want to take them off. They boast a flexible cork footbed and supportive, padded insole. Oh, and did I mention they're ADORABLE?
Affordable, waterproof high-top sneakers with a fun retro vibe that will take up minimal space in your luggage *and* add a burst of color and flair to all your otherwise low-key travel looks.
Columbia hiking boots if your travels involve some seriously rugged terrain. Designed with a high-traction rubber sole and waterproof leather-and-suede upper, they're basically indestructible in addition to being so comfortable you'll wonder how on earth you ever hiked before them. Reviewers also say they don't even have a break-in period, so they're ideal for last-minute trips.
Travel-friendly Sanuk yoga mat flip-flops made from a similar material as your fave yoga mat, meaning no slipping, no blisters and all-day comfort even in the muggiest of climates.
Or Sanuk yoga slings if you need a little extra support with that same amazing yoga mat footbed, only with an added slingback so they won't ever fly off your feet. Bonus points for them being machine washable, too.
Handwoven Diana leather loafers so stunning, everyone you meet on your trip will be denying to know where you scored them from. Dress them up or down with ease while feeling like you're wearing the world's best (and chicest) slippers.
Ultra-supportive Crocs platforms that are as easy to walk in as they are low-key, lightweight, and durable. You really can never go wrong with a pair of Crocs, no matter the style.
Promising review: "These sandals look cute and are super comfortable at the same time. I can wear these while walking for hours, and my feet don't hurt. I have three pairs, and my sister has five pairs. I'm a nurse,e so I know a thing or two about our feet hurting. Get this now!" —PlaceholderGet them from Amazon for $48.94+ (available in sizes 4–11 and four styles).
Huarache sandals specially designed to mold to your foot as you wear them, so it's ~highly recommended~ you size down if you're in between sizes. Oh yeah, and these beauties are all handmade by Mexican artisans. Super cool.
Macarena Collection is a small California-based business. All of their shoes are handmade by Mexican artisans. Promising review: "Oh my goodness, these are so comfortable! I have a high arch, and they don't pinch anywhere; they are supportive, and I have already gotten compliments! I will definitely order more." —Lindsay LeeGet them from Macarena Collection on Etsy for $50.24 (originally $66.99; available in sizes 5–10 and eight colors).
Volcom flip-flops since it's likely high time to toss out your super worn ones from last season and graduate to a much sturdier, comfier pair that's also perf for pedi season.
Promising review: "Great price and cute flip-flop that goes with shorts, jeans, or sundresses. This is my go-to every day slip-on for Florida or tropical travel. I've ordered these multiple times and will keep doing so. They last a few years before I have to order again. I've only had one pair where the strap broke after two years, so they are made well. Typically, the sole wears down over time." —SerenaGet them from Amazon for $28.98+ (available in sizes 5–11 and seven styles).
Stylish waterproof leather boots that look like sleek city strollers but are actually technically designed to be worn on hiking trails. These boots have sealed seams and Thinsulate insulation, which means even if it gets super wet outside, your toes will stay toasty warm and dry.
Skechers sport sandals with lightweight responsive cushioning, adjustable straps, and a high-rebound insole, meaning when it comes to keeping your feet feeling good in spite of walking long distance, these are top of the line.
Allbirds Tree Runners that not only have an incredibly lightweight eucalyptus fiber material designed for top-notch ventilation (and shoelaces made from recycled plastic bottles), but their foam insoles regulate heat, wick away moisture, and reduces odor. They're pretty much the perfect shoe even though they look deceptively like a cute, otherwise ordinary pair of trendy sneakers.
Skechers boat shoes if you plan on spending time on the water this season or just want an excuse to look extra preppy and put together. Not only are they amazingly comfortable, they look fab with high-waisted shorts, linen dresses and all things nautical.
Crocs flip-flops so durable you never have to worry about them accidentally snapping and breaking when you're walking around in the thick sand (the worst). They're also ultra-lightweight, so they're easy as pie to pack.
Flexible leather sandals if you love the feel of being barefoot but still need to wear shoes on your journey (naturally). The straps aren't fixed, making them endlessly adjustable to your unique perfect fit.
And Vionic orthotic sandals you'll be surprised to know are orthopedic as they don't have the usual look of them but do have plenty of arch support, deep heel cups and cushioning from toe to heel. Wear them with all your best vacay outfits.
A waterproof pair of low-top Sorel sneakers so you can splash through summer showers in style without sacrificing an ounce of comfort. Think: sneaker-level coziness with rain boot resilience, aka your feet's new BFF.
Promising review: "Bought these and wore them out of the box for a week-long European trip. They were comfortable, lightweight for a platform shoe, kept my feet 100% dry, and they go with so many outfits. Can't recommend them enough." —kmherterGet them from Nordstrom for $95 (available in sizes 5–12 and four colors).
A pair of highly popular Plaka sandals which are handmade and incredibly durable for both long and short strolls (and adventures!) alike.
Promising review: "I bought these for a trip to New Orleans, which involved lots and lots of walking in high humidity. I literally got compliments on them everywhere we went, and they were so comfortable I could wear them all day. We walked miles and miles and my feet didn't hurt (which is a small miracle given that I have arthritis). They're surprisingly durable and the woven fabric is incredibly soft. Even when my feet swelled due to the heat and humidity, they were still pretty darn comfy. I highly recommend these sandals and plan to buy a few more pairs this spring." —UrbanUtahGet them from Amazon for $34.95+ (available in sizes 5–11 and 25 colors).
A flexible pair of cork sandals created specifically for maximum comfort because they contour perfectly to your feet as you wear them in over time. Reviewers say they're an excellent, affordable alternative to Birkenstocks...and one even claims they're COMFIER.
Promising review: "I have a wide foot and have pain from time to time. I wore these while traveling and had no pain. They are comfortable and I didn't get a single blister even wearing them out of the box." —ElaineGet them from Amazon for $34.99+ (available in sizes 5–12, including wide fits, and 21 colors).
Quilted slip-on slides so cushiony and comfy, you'll be walking on cloud fine. They're perfect for exploring, heading to the airport or just sliding into your cozy-while-traveling era without missing a stylish step.
Promising review: "I saw someone on TikTok talking about how comfy and inexpensive these shoes were. I knew there was a lot of rain in the forecast for our vacation, and I didn't want to ruin any of my expensive shoes, so I bought them. I was unprepared for how comfortable these shoes were and how they went with everything. I think I wore them almost every day on vacation. I even wore them to the beach, put shells inside, and got them wet. The sand came right out, and they dried so fast. Also, we walked so much on our trip, and my feet never hurt. One hundred percent worth the price. I'm going to buy a backup pair now just in case for our Disney trip this summer." —Erica Get them from Amazon for $27.19+ (available in sizes 6–11, including wide options, and eight colors).
Unique floral cutout ballet flats that look like they belong in an art museum...but lucky you, they're made for real life (and real compliments).
Promising reviews: "Super, super cute! I love the look and how they feel. They're very comfortable and they almost mold to my feet. I'm usually between a 10/11, so I ordered the size 11 and they fit perfectly. Definitely recommend if you want a cute and unique pair of flats." —Megan"Versatile to dress up or go casual. Stylish with endless outfit combinations. Great for travel." —Brenda G.Get them from Amazon for $25.89 (available in sizes 5–12 and six colors).
And darling braided sandals so comfy, that'll have your feet feeling like they're on vacation no matter where you're headed. Perfect for adding a little sunshine to any OOTD.
Promising review: "Exactly what I expected! Perfect for travel on a boat. Fit perfectly. The price value is perfect. This shoe is perfect. Slip on and go! Dress down in shorts or dress up in a dress. I now own white, black, and tan. I first purchased tan and have not stopped wearing it. Logical to purchase the white and black with summer coming. Easy to pack. True to size." —ChayaGet them from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in sizes 6–10 and 26 colors).

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Tom's Guide
22 minutes ago
- Tom's Guide
Early Prime Day sale knocks 50% off Coleman gear — 11 outdoor deals I'd shop now
Summer has arrived — and we're ready for all the exciting adventures it will bring. From hiking and camping to beach trips and tailgating, there's plenty of ways to spend your time being one with nature this season. And if you already have all your summer excursions lined up, you might want to think about updating your outdoor gear. Fortunately, Amazon's early Prime Day sale is offering unbeatable deals on Coleman camping gear and essentials. Coleman is an outdoor brand with some of the best tents, sleeping bags, grills , coolers and gear on the market. And right now, you can snag deals starting at just $31. With savings of up to 50%, we recommend happy campers and outdoor enthusiasts hop on these unbeatable Coleman deals ASAP. Plus, check out all our favorite early 4th of July sales and early Prime Day deals. This lightweight beach chair by Coleman folds up and comes with a bag for easy carrying. Plus, it features a seat back pocket and cup holder to hold your clothes, drinks and other beach gear. A relaxed back rest with full seat support makes this beach chair the one to buy — especially for just $31. This versatile bag functions as a backpack, tote and cooler, making it perfect for various outdoor activities. It will keep your food and drinks cold and can hold up to 24 cans in its leakproof compartments. Plus, it's now 50% off on Amazon. There's nothing like sitting back and relaxing by the campfire in a comfortable chair — especially one that has an oversized seat and large feet to prevent tipping. This portable folding chair will hold your drinks and its water-resistant sleeve protects phones and other electronic devices from the elements. This 65 qt cooler is sure to come in handy at the campground. It's insulated for multi-day ice retention and can hold up to 101 cans and keeps ice cold up to 4 days. It's also equipped with heavy-duty wheels and an easy-tow handle, so you can simply bring it where it needs to go. Grill like a pro in no time with this 12-piece stainless steel grilling tool set that is durable and heavy-duty enough for outdoor use. You'll get all the tools you need to cook up a delicious meal in the great outdoors — and a carrying case that will hold it all. You'll also get plenty of use out of the kit whether you're barbecuing in the backyard or you're cooking up dinner on the campsite. Despite its affordable price, Coleman assures that this three-person tent blocks wind and rain and is easy to set up. Plus, it has an e-port, so you don't have to go without home comforts like electricity inside your tent. Shoppers on Amazon also love it, as it boasts a strong 4.6-star rating based on over 17,000 reviews. A good-quality sleeping bag never goes out of style and Coleman's Heritage option is one of the best bangs for your buck around. Insulated to keep you warm and comfortable in temperatures down to 10 degrees Fahrenheit, it's perfect for camping in any season. It also comes with a Wrap 'N' Roll storage system, which allows for effortless packing. Cook up your campfire favorites on this camping stove featuring three burners that evenly radiate heat for precise cooking and temperature control. You don't even need a match to ignite it — simply push the start button to get cooking. It also features panels to shield burners from the wind or you can fold them down to use as side tables. At 33% off, this 6-person tent is a total steal. The tent is windproof, waterproof and insect-less, ensuring you get a safe and comfortable sleep. It has a screened in porch, which in my opinion is super bougie when it comes to camping. It also sets up in just 7 minutes (another plus in my book). This extra large ten-person tent has just dropped in price by 22%. Despite its affordable price, Coleman assures that it blocks up to 35 mph winds and rain, and can set up easily in less than 15 minutes. Need a portable grill that's ready to hit the road? This Coleman grill is nearly $100 off on Amazon. Ideal for camping, tailgating and roadtrips, the versatile appliance has quick-fold legs and wheels, as well as an easy setup and tear-down. It's perfect to bring along on any outdoor adventure.


Buzz Feed
2 hours ago
- Buzz Feed
27 Stylish Amazon Picks Sure To Become Your Favorites
FYI: Amazon Prime Day is coming! A two-piece linen set that will make it seem like you get all your clothes bespoke. This set comes with a crop top and pants that you can wear together for a monochromatic moment or mix and match with other pieces. Promising review: "I love this set so much I'm going to buy it in a different color! It was perfect for my trip to New York! It was perfect for walking all day long. It's fresh and lightweight." —Berta BrayPrice: $42.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and 25 colors) Or! A muslin two-piece shorts and button-down set just in case you want to bring an airy feel and organic look to your loungewear while looking stylish enough to step out the door at any given momemt. A pair of relaxed fit overalls that are serving major Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants vibes, since they look *so* good on virtually everyone. Promising review: "I liked these when I tried them on, and after wearing them for a few hours, I ordered four more pairs. These are perhaps the most comfortable thing I have ever worn; that includes a pretty awesome cashmere lounge set. They looked cute running errands and were so perfect for chores of all kinds, including outside on a hot winter day (gotta love Florida). I have made a lot of Amazon purchases (a whole lot, lots of lots), and these are definitely in my top five." —Kindle CustomerPrice: $34.99 (available in sizes XS–5XL and in 23 colors) A pair of vegan double-buckle sandals with adjustable buckles so your feet can slip into them without feeling constricted (looking at you, wide feet and high arches). Plus, they look like something ripped straight from a fashion influencer's IG feed — three cheers for functional style! A gorgeously romantic floral print midi dress, because even if you won't be skipping through a field of fresh blooms this season, you can still dress the part. Promising review: "One of the cutest dresses I have ever purchased! I have thick arms, and the sleeves didn't cut off my circulation. It isn't see-through, which is nice, and I got a lot of compliments on it." —LaurenPrice: $31.44+ (available in sizes S–XL and in seven colors) A tank top that's a no-thoughts-required type of shirt — by that, I mean you can simply throw this on with a pair of jean shorts and have an outfit that looks like it's worth a million bucks. Plus, reviewers ~love~ that you don't need a bra to sport this baby. Promising reviews: "I have bought this top in seven different colors because I am that obsessed with it. I have gifted it to all of my friends for their birthdays because it is that great. It is a Spandex-like material and super comfy, but the fit and style of it are what I am obsessed with. It is super cute. I wear this to work out in or even just wear to go out in without a bra underneath, and it keeps everything in check. My number one clothing item for the last couple of months!!" —Midwestern Girl"I read the reviews and couldn't believe that women with large breasts, such as myself, could really go braless with this top. Yup. It's true." —AimeePrice: $14.97 (available in sizes XS–XXL and in 32 colors) A beach cover-up for your next seaside getaway, whether it's at a tropical destination or just a few miles from your home. All that's missing from this outfit is a mojito in your hand and sunscreen on your skin. Promising review: "I honestly was not expecting this product to be this beautiful! I bought this on a whim, and when it arrived I was SO surprised how great the quality is. It fits me perfectly! I'm OBSESSED. The material is soooo soft, and I'm so happy with it! 100% recommend it to everyone. :)" —ChristinePrice: $19.99 (available in 18 colors) A super-cute satin mini skirt proving satin is not just for evening wear. Whoever thinks that has clearly never laid eyes on this cute, brunch-ready skirt. Promising review: "Literally… buy it. I recommend actually checking your measurements, but the difference in sizes isn't by much, so if you're really worried about it, size up. It's not that big a change anyway. I was skeptical, but it's now my favorite thing. Not too tight, not too flowy." —Emma TaylorPrice: $24.99 (available in sizes XS–XL and in 33 colors) A pair of khaki shorts for when you want to enjoy the comfort of your favorite jean shorts while adhering to your minimalist style. These have an inseam in between mini shorts and bermudas, making them a perfect breezy option while still providing coverage! Promising review: "These are really well-made shorts. Every seam, details like zipper and finished edges are top notch. They are above name brands in quality." —MargiePrice: $17.90 (available in sizes 0–20, two fits, and 10 colors) A strapless bustier so you can look like you have a personal stylist on speed dial. This top + your favorite blue jeans + go-to jewelry pieces = the perfect outfit formula for a night out with friends. Promising review: "I purchased this outfit for a night out. I must say I love this top because you can dress it up or dress it down. It is not see-through at all. A nice corset-like top! Not made of cheap material at all." —Danielle DeNoraPrice: $34.99 (available sizes 0–16 and 12 colors) A pair of wide-leg cropped jeans that are the secret to looking put together and feeling comfy as heck. These will elevate your go-to white-tee-and-jeans outfit formula while providing extra room for movement! Promising review: "I never ever buy jeans from Amazon because jeans are so hard to shop for. I'm honestly jumping for joy over how much I looooove these; they are sooo soft and stretchy. I may have to buy another pair, they are that great. I'm happy I took the risk and tried them." —JennaPrice: $26.59 (available in sizes 4–18, including long and short, and 14 colors) A pair of braided sandals with a supportive chunky heel proving that you *can* dress up virtually anything — even your favorite band tee and broken-in pair of jeans. Promising review: "Reaching for these sandals more and more because they're comfy, cute, and elevate my outfits! They didn't require any breaking in, and I've worn them for an entire day out and had no issues with long-term wear. Fit was true to size. Going to get another color since I love them so much!" —NidhiPrice: $29.99 (available in sizes 6–10 and 26 colors) A pair of palazzo pants that will allow the summer breeze to flow while still making you look put together if you're heading to the office. Promising review: "These pants are so comfortable and flowy! I stepped outside of my usual skinny jean outfit to try this style, and I never want to take them off! They are great casual pants for work and can be dressed up for the evening with a fancy shirt and heels. They are as comfortable as pajamas, without looking like it." —NashPrice: $28.89 (available in sizes XS–XXL, short and long, and 28 colors) A three-quarter-sleeve tunic shirt to wear on your next date with lovers, friends, or yourself. (Take yourself out on dates. It's amazing!) Promising review: "I wasn't sure I was going to love this shirt when I saw it in person until I put it on. This is so comfortable! Easily my favorite shirt now. Soft and stretchy. I will be ordering more. I love it!" —KristiPrice: $19.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and 36 colors) A pair of chic sandals you can wear anytime, anywhere — whether you're off to a meeting, brunch with friends, or getting your wardrobe ready for wedding season! Promising review: "I bought these to match a hot pink dress I purchased, and they matched the dress perfectly! They are very comfortable. I wore them to a party for eight hours and had no issues with pain the next day. The straps fit nicely, not too loose or snug. Would definitely purchase in other colors!" —MarianaPrice: $20.66+ (available in sizes 5–12 and in 13 colors) A tortoise shell Apple watch band that costs a fraction of the price of designer options while being just as (dare I say, if not more) chic! This is great for your friend who changes their accessories pretty much every day! Promising review: "Honestly, the best watch band I've found yet. Cutest print and surprisingly WAY higher quality than I ever expected for the price! Links were super easy to remove/add back in, and it's incredibly easy to clean. Holds up well and stays securely clamped even when I sleep and run. Highly HIGHLY recommend to any fashionista!" —CaseyPrice: $8.99+ (available in 16 colors and compatible with nine watch styles) A pair of capri pants, because they're back, but not in the way you're used to — think less cargo capris of the 2000s and more fitted cropped pants circa 1960s legends like Sophia Loren. These pants go very well with frilly blouses and pointed-toe slingbacks — but you can also go for a more skater princess look and pair this with an oversized hoodie and Vans! Promising review: "Love the fit of these. I am 5'9' and often have trouble finding comfortable shorts and capris. These are pull-ons and very comfortable fabric. They feel like great quality, and you can dress them up with a nice blouse. I would buy again!" —Carolin PachecoPrice: $20+ (available in sizes 6–16 and in 10 colors) A high-slit wrap skirt that will be the only thing you have to pack for your weekend getaway this summer. This perfect warm-weather skirt works for any occasion — from wine tasting to listening to live music. Plus! Depending on how you adjust the slit, you can even use this skirt as a buffer against chafing. BRB, ordering now. A pair of buttery soft leggings because the bottom half of your Zoom outfits deserve an upgrade, too! If you don't find yourself in front of a webcam much these days, this pair is also great to wear during your daily runs (reviewers say they're super moisture-wicking!). Promising review: "These leggings are amazing. Excellent fit, extremely cute and comfortable. They lend more to a Spandex material with a sheen to the finish. Lots of stretch and great compression. The length is perfect. I am a curvy girl, and they fit well without squeezing or bunching. They passed the 'squat' test and don't show through when leaning over." —BrandiPrice: $22.99 (available in sizes XS–XL and in 23 colors) An off-the-shoulder shirt that will slot right into any "-core" you're into right now. This is the perfect top for dressing down with slacks for the office or dressing up with a mini skirt when going out. Promising review: "It's nice enough to wear to a nice dinner but cute enough to wear to the bar. It makes me feel more put together, and I love it. I wear it as a complete off-the-shoulder shirt, but it fits over both shoulders too." —AlejandraPrice: $25.89 (available in sizes XS–XL and in 14 colors) A v cute tiered maxi skirt — aka an easy way to look like a million bucks. This paired with a tube top in a matching color and a tan leather belt, will give you major coastal Cali influencer vibes. And OMG, I almost forgot — it has pockets! Promising review: "Exactly what I was looking for! I have seen skirts like this all over my Pinterest and this fits very true to size. The elastic was comfortable, high-waisted or low-waisted. Length is long but great! Plus, it has pockets!! Great find!" —Gabrielle LynchPrice: $29.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and in 23 colors) A satin button-up for a fun, reflective, and fancy-looking upgrade from your typical button-up shirt! A straw tote bag with pom-poms since everyone deserves to look glamorous on vacation. Get this before you jet off to your next beachside getaway! Promising review: "I absolutely love this handbag! It is of great quality for the price. This stylish handbag complements every spring and summer outfit perfectly. I received so many compliments while carrying it! Oh yeah, I forgot to mention that there is plenty of space inside to carry your belongings. This handbag is a must-have." —Chavas StanleyPrice: $25.59+ (available in two styles) A deep V-neck crop top serving major '70s vibes! You can pair this with a knitted skirt if you really wanna play up the retro look. Promising review: "I never leave reviews, but this top is too perfect not to sing its praises. I have a small frame and a larger chest (32G), so I was skeptical that this top would fit in my usual size (small). However, it fits perfectly. I attribute this mostly to the quality of the material, which is very soft and super stretchy, and will probably still fit even through weight gain/loss. It's also a full top — the material does not roll up but fully covers my midriff, and the straps and cups provide enough coverage and support so a bra isn't needed. Would recommend!" —Amazon CustomerPrice: $16.99 (available in sizes XS–XL and 24 colors) A high-waisted two-piece that'll have you turning heads at your local pool, a faraway beach, or a desert music festival. Promising review: "I absolutely love it! The top is so cute that I've worn it by itself and received tons of compliments. It fits great, and it provides a lot of support, which is nice. The material is thick as well, and I felt very comfortable in it. The bottoms are adorable and high-waisted and fit great. It runs true to size, and the colors are vibrant. Overall, love this suit!" —Amazon CustomerPrice: $32.99+ (available in sizes S–XL and in 23 colors) A button-up shirtdress, because who has the time or energy to wear pants on a weekend (and ESPECIALLY when relaxing at brunch)?! Wear this for a freeing feel and a look that'll turn heads. Promising review: "Such a great dress that can be dressed down with sneakers/sandals or dressed up with wedges/block heels. I got the medium and loved the kelly green color!" —AmandaPrice: $34.99 (available in sizes XS–3X and in 24 colors) And a tie-front cropped shirt that will elevate your go-to tee-and-jeans outfit, STAT. You can wear this as a shirt practically anywhere or use it as a coverup when you're by the beach!


CNN
3 hours ago
- CNN
Is this the most political fashion item ever?
Overlooked, familiar, homely… These are the words traditionally associated with the apron, a detachable, workaday garment that has historically functioned 'almost like an invisibility cloak.' So said Carol Tulloch, a professor of dress, diaspora and transnationalism at Chelsea College of Arts, in a telephone interview with CNN. Just don't tell that to Jeremy Allen White's character Carmy Berzatto in hit TV drama 'The Bear' whose tightly-tied blue Bragard apron (a replica of those worn in chic Napa Valley eatery The French Laundry) only enhances his main character energy as the show's fourth season premieres this week. Tulloch, alongside fellow London-based academic Judith Clark, a professor of fashion and museology at London College of Fashion, have recently come together for a three-month-long residency at the Chelsea Space gallery to reflect upon the apron's cultural and social values — its design and use, as well as role regarding issues of race, class, and gender identity. It's timely as the apron is enjoying something of a renaissance in popular culture — featuring, for example, in recent collections from Hermès, The Row, Dior, Phoebe Philo and Ganni and on Kaia Gerber who wore a chic pinafore-style dress while out in New York in April — and it's ability to encompass unheard stories and experiences is starting to be critically appraised. 'They've been an unconscious part of many of our lives and childhoods,' said Tulloch. 'While they only really have one function — to protect clothes — they come in many forms.' When Tulloch started critically examining aprons, they proved to be a fascinating insight into people across all strata of society, she said. 'Those I wouldn't expect to have a close relationship with aprons — academics, for example — become quite pensive when they start thinking about them.' Tulloch recalled a small show from some years ago, called 'Pinnies from Heaven' at the Makers Guild museum in Wales, exhibiting works created by artists based on their recollections of the apron. One artist talked about how, for them, the apron absorbed the detritus of all the things that happened in the home, not just the mess from cooking or cleaning, but emotional fallout too. 'That really stuck with me,' Tulloch said. For Clark, the apron is 'talismanic.' Speaking to CNN via a phone call, she observed that the residency created an immediate sense of nostalgia for some people. 'Within two minutes of coming in, people recount something of their family history,' she said. Tulloch has also looked at aprons as a tool of protection and activism for women through the lens of African Jamaican market women called 'Higglers'. 'The Higgler is still very much a part of Jamaican identity,' says Tulloch. 'She was visually defined by the apron, whether tied around the waist or as a full bib. Likewise they were worn by women who were pineapple or banana pickers, or domestic workers.' Tulloch references contemporary South African artist Mary Sibande who explores the intersection of race, gender and labor in the country with her sculptural depictions of the apron-wearing 'Sophie,' the artist's self-proclaimed 'alter ego who plays out the fantasies of the maternal women in her family.' 'Sibande's great grandmother all the way up to her mother were all maids,' said Tulloch. 'The apron has served as a visual code in movies too: African American women were often defined as maids by the wearing of aprons in films and cartoons. Separately, the suffragettes reclaimed aprons, using pinafores emblazoned with slogans as activist tools, often when they had come out of prison for their campaigning work…' But aprons weren't always a sign of domesticity, servitude or homeliness, or of being working class. Nor were they always worn predominantly by women. Research suggests that triangular apron-like garments were first worn by noblemen in Ancient Egypt, as evidenced in paintings from the time. In the Middle Ages, aprons made from leather and heavy canvas were worn by farriers, cobblers, butchers, blacksmiths and other tradesmen desiring heavy duty protection from the perils of their work. Then, during the Renaissance, European 'women of means' wore elaborate yet washable aprons adorned with lace and embroidery to keep their luxurious gowns clean. Aprons were a fixture of many employments during the industrial revolution, with strict codes delineating the styles to be worn by staff (plain, workaday) and the styles worn by the women holding the purse strings (elaborate, embroidered and made from more costly cloths). In the 1950s, the apron came to be a symbol of homemaking particularly in the United States — think Lucille Ball's Lucy Ricardo character in the 1950s sitcom 'I Love Lucy' or more recently January Jones' portrayal of Betty Draper in 'Mad Men.' Despite the garment being such a part of our collective consciousness, aprons have rarely been studied, said Clark.' Collections, such as the one held by the Fashion Museum (in Bath, England), are huge and of great cultural value and significance, but there hasn't really been sustained research done on them,' she explained. While displaying aprons comes with its own set of challenges — the style is tricky to mount due to its flat construction — Clark also suspects aprons have 'not been considered of cultural importance because of their relationship to traditionally women's domestic work.' But perhaps that's changing as the apron continues to be modernized, further cementing itself into popular culture. Thanks to Gen-Z's increasing interest in food and cooking, apron-wearing is finding a new genderless and more diverse audience. While alpha male chefs of old wouldn't often be seen in a pinafore (Gordon Ramsay aside, aprons were the preserve of a 'cook') Carmy's proud pinny-wearing is a case in point. Even Vogue magazine decreed the return of the garment (alongside the rise of what they termed 'gardening-core') in their June 2025 issue. 'There's some beautiful imagery of the late (fashion journalist and muse) Anna Piaggi with Karl Lagerfeld, using a Chanel cape as an apron,' said Clark. 'I love their shape, their mobility, that they're not fitted and so therefore are a truly inclusive garment… I love how easily the item can be subverted. It just refuses to be defined.'