Over the last couple of decades, Ugg’s ubiquitous fluffy boot-slipper hybrids have had the kind of trajectory that lesser footwear brands dream of. After gaining popularity in their native Australia, Uggs established a dedicated following among Southern California surfers in need of shoes that would keep them warm after a day of pounding the waves. Then, in the 2000s, Uggs hit the big time as the “It” shoe for a generation of Valley Girls (and those looking to emulate their style) who paired them with short skirts and velour track jackets. Twenty-odd years later, the brand banned from Christopher Nolan sets has matured and diversified thanks to a string of wild collabs with heavyweight names, including Tremaine Emory and Telfar. Its new team-up with Willy Chavarria, however, might be its biggest swing yet.
“I love that surfer vibe. Are you kidding? I’m crazy for that surfer vibe. I love it. I love it,” Chavarria says. “But I wanted to just have a totally opposite perspective.” The opposite of Uggs in Chavarria’s mind? Bikers. Instead of longboards and Frappuccinos, Chavarria’s designs flip the script, reimagining the Ugg’s unmistakable chestnut-suede silhouette in brawny and brooding black leather. The tallest and most formidable among them, the Guard Boot, features moto details like a molded toe cap, protective shin guard, and pull-on handles, while the mid-calf boots—the Biker and the Relaxed—as well as the ankle-framing Otzo clog are draped in slouchy leather and fitted with chrome hardware. Finally, the five-piece family is completed with a blacked-out pair of hotel slippers featuring Chavarria’s crest in fiery red embroidery. Of course, each pair does still feature Ugg’s signature plush sheepskin lining.
Courtesy of Ugg
