A pair of mucus-coloured hemp shoes, the Gardana clogs from French brand Plasticana, have become an unlikely must-have in the UK. Made from 100% recycled PVC and hemp, they feature a pliable yet sturdy sole and cost as little as £25. Vogue once described their hue as 'bird-pooey', but TikTokers have labelled them 'maybe the coolest shoes in London'.
The trend gained fashion credibility after US label Bode sent Gardanas down the catwalk in 2020. Originally associated with Brooklyn, they are now appearing on the streets of UK cities. Gardener Josh Chalmers at Knepp in West Sussex wears them for work and in Brighton, styling them with bright yellow socks and selvedge denim.
TikTok has introduced the clogs to a younger audience, with users pairing them with everything from hickory stripes to suit trousers. They are sold by high-end retailers like Drake's and Plümo, as well as Free People and east London's Straw, which is the only UK bricks-and-mortar stockist.
Hugo MacGregor-Craig, co-founder of Straw, notes that while they have been popular for three years, TikTok has expanded their appeal. He credits their gardening credentials for making them suitable for urban wear in UK weather. Chalmers, who bought his first pair four years ago, says the gardening aesthetic remains in the zeitgeist.
