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30 Times People Came Up With An Awful Shoe Design But Executed Their Ideas Flawlessly
Do you ever stare at an item of clothing and wonder what the ever-loving heck went through the designer’s mind when they made it? We know we have… and we can’t wait to share those fun experiences with you, dear Pandas.
The ‘Awful Taste But Great Execution’ subreddit is a massively popular online community of nearly 1.9 million members who document quality craftsmanship that is, ironically, somewhat tasteless (or wonderfully tasteful, depending on your point of view!). We’ve collected some of the most overdesigned and bizarre examples of shoes that are bound to confuse and amuse you. Scroll down and upvote the pics that you love to hate and hate to love! We're not going to lie, some of these designs actually work quite well... the pigeon shoes, in particular, are exquisite.
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#1
Pigeon Shoes
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#2
These Campbell's Tomato Soup Shoes I Received For Christmas Years Ago
Little Miss Betty 2 years ago
My daughter owns a pair of these, they're now two sizes too small but she refuses to part with them.
Marie Dahme 2 years ago
Looks like something Andy Warhol would come up with, right ?
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#3
These Gum Shoe High Heels
Loki's_Lil_Butterknife 2 years ago
Those are pretty darn clever as an art piece. They’d be a great conversation starter.
Broadly speaking, we feel like there are three types of people when it comes to shoes. The first enjoy functionality and comfort. If their shoes do what they’re supposed to do (i.e. keep their feet warm, cool, dry, and don’t slip on the ice, depending on where they’re going), they’re perfectly happy!
Meanwhile, others want a good mix of function and form. Not only do the shoes have to do what they’re designed for, they also have to look good. Aesthetics are important, after all. And whether we want to admit it or not, we want to leave a positive impression on our friends, coworkers, family members, and even complete strangers. It’s great to be thought of as stylish.
#4
This Marge Simpson Shoe
The Original Bruno 2 years ago
I want matching ones for boys where Homer is fading back into the shrubs.
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#5
Armoured Crocs
Stardust she/her 2 years ago
They’re actually antiques. Made in the 13th century after a time traveller gifted this to some random shoe maker back then /s
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Paulo Freitas 2 years ago (edited)
Crocbatons lol ( armor shoes = sabatons ) it can also be a Scandinavian Metal band lol.
#6
These Shoes Found In A Second-Hand Shop
Firstname Lastname 2 years ago
It took me too long to figure out what it'd look like on a human foot.
Rebelliousslug 2 years ago
I need to see these on someone’s feet. I don’t have a foot fish just…how?
Toni Kay 2 years ago
https://duckduckgo.com/?q=Julian+Hakes+Spiral+Shoe&iax=images&ia=images
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InvincibleRodent 2 years ago
These look kinda cool, but I can't imagine them being comfortable.
Finally, we have true fashion lovers who embrace the form of the item of clothing at the expense of its functionality. What this means, in short, is that they enjoy how their shoes look and what impact they have on everyone else to the extent that they’re willing to sacrifice comfort. Think—high heels.
However, for some stylish Pandas, a trendy pair of heels or a bespoke pair of formal dress shoes aren’t enough. So they push the limits of taste and play around with interesting and unique shoe designs. Some of them work perfectly. Others end up being featured on the ‘Awful Taste But Great Execution’ subreddit.
#7
My Footwear Design Entry For A Local Competition
Benita Valdez 2 years ago
Pretty much. There are shoes just like that and I still can't see the point
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Leolynn Cauthron 2 years ago
Did it win anything? Because without a heel I can’t see it being accepted as a ‘shoe’. And there’s so much that could have been done to include a heel. It may be footwear but it’s not functional footwear.
#8
I Looked Up “Dachshund In Shoes” And Got This
A. Starhawk Hunt 2 years ago
Badger hole. That’s what their name means, badger hound.
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ADHD raptor 2 years ago (edited)
hm i think im going to search that up now! EDITP: THIS IS EVEN BETTER THEN HUSKYS IN SUITS
#9
These Wookie Shoes That My Brother Bought
Jennifer Norton 2 years ago
I am 46 and would wear the heck out of these shoes!!!!! Any I know of at least two coworkers that would be jealous!
Just because something is expensive and expertly crafted doesn’t automatically mean that it’s objectively tasteful. It can, however, be a way to have fun, relax, and start a discussion. If you want to stand out, you have to be willing to take fashion risks. Of course, not all of them will pay off, but you’re likely to cause a buzz either way.
Similarly, clothing designers also want to push the limits of what’s acceptable and stylish. Pretty much everyone wants to be known for quality work and for starting global trends. So it’s not surprising that some creators experiment with the line between good and bad taste.
#10
I Personally Think These Are Beautiful And Remind Me Of Monster High Doll Shoes. My BF Does Not Like 'Em. Lol
Daffydillz~ 2 years ago
Hahaha hmm, maybe under the style of not my monkeys, not my circus...
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#11
Just Went Through My Old Shoe Collection And Realized I Always Had An Impeccable Sense For Style
fair_weather_rose 2 years ago
If the heel was chunkier,I would wear these
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Tricia ReeDonough 2 years ago
My mother had a pair of blue ones back in the late 70's/early 80's LOL
#12
Hoof Shoes
GenericPanda09 2 years ago (edited)
Good for parties if you don't mind being the centaur of attention (sorry...old dad joke xd)
Austin Sauce 2 years ago
Shouldn’t be an issue as long as you don’t drink too much at the eq-wine tasting
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Error 404 (He/They) 2 years ago
How do people walk with shoes that don't have heels on the back ??? Do they have superpowers
gas station cola 2 years ago (edited)
i have these shoes & they are indeed incredibly difficult to walk in. the heels themselves are four inches high, & the resin hooves are four inches high as well, for a total of eight extra inches with no support. the hooves are solid resin & the way they jut foreward changes the center of balance completely. the trick is to learn to bend & lock your knees at the right moments as well as keeping your feet planted the right distance apart while standing. walking on hills or uneven ground is a death sentence unless you have a walking stick or a friend, because the solid resin will drag you where you don't want to go & you're only walking on your toes. after an hour getting used to the shoes though, i was able to jump & skip & dance, much to the delight of children at the renaissance faire who thought i was a real satyr!
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Annette Easton 2 years ago
I know someone who thinks that I'm "evil" and a "devil worshipper" and now I really really want a pair of these to wear when he's around.
rs_adahl1971 2 years ago
They wore these during prohibition to confuse police. Not exactly like these. The shoe was a men's loafer back then.
Zia Barrett 2 years ago
I have similar for a cosplay. Looove mah hoof shoes, very comfortable ❤️
Naturally, some designs fall short of the public’s expectations. However, others can be surprise hits. And it’s not always apparent what will work and what will fail until your clothes are out there, in the wide world, being worn and criticized and analyzed by other designers.
#13
These Hamburger Shoes
and_a_touch_of_the_’tism 2 years ago
I literally groaned. Take an upvote.
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#14
Pasta Shoes
just a girl who loves books 2 years ago
im getting these for my friend @YourLocalAlien she loves pasta
#15
Went To The Dollar Store.. Found Grass Shoes
Stardust she/her 2 years ago
I sometimes like the sensation of grass on my feet so I’ll probably buy them to wear indoors
Marcellus II 2 years ago
Well, this is not it for that sensation. Most of the sensation is the smells, and this doesn't have the texture either; more like walking on boiled hedgehogs.
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Serenity Now! 2 years ago
They're shoes you wear went you don't want to step on the grass. LOL
Good design will, inevitably, be about finding a balance between the creator’s vision for the product, as well as what the consumer values. Quality design is all about empathizing with the buyer.
That means that it’s best to make the product functional, user-friendly, and visually pleasing. Overly-complex, over-designed pieces might look great in a gallery or on the runway but might not appeal to the average person.
#16
Untrackable Shoes
Alexandru Bucur 2 years ago
If I'm not mistaken, these were used by rum runners during the prohibition to create false trails...
Pyewaquet 2 years ago
These footprints would look very strange with the presumed ball of the foot making a deeper impression than the heel. I
#17
School Supplies Shoes
Jack Waltz 2 years ago
No they just banned proper education replaced with religious indoctrination
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Bylee Victoriqua Malox 2 years ago
As a school teacher with atleast 10 kids claiming to lose a pencil or pen each class, I approve this.
#18
Ps2 Shoes
Jonn Thundergun 2 years ago
Me too. My game room is dedicated to Playstation. I would love to display these.
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If an expert is left to create whatever they want, with no interaction with the outside world, their designs might be more akin to art than actual functional products.
Meanwhile, if the creator listens solely to what the market wants, they might be left creating generic, boring, and ‘safe’ designs that likely won’t stand out from the crowd. Balance is imperative!
#19
I See You Shackle Shoes And I Raise You These, Teddy Shoes
#20
I Guess These Are Shoes
#21
Hideous Crocodile Shoes Giving Side Eye
A while ago, fashion designer Oyinda Akinfenwa explained to Bored Panda that shoes are a very important part of any outfit. It’s essential that you get them right!
“People tend to wear the wrong shoes for certain outfits which really brings down the whole look, by the time you start admiring them and get to their feet and you’re disappointed by their shoes,” she shared, adding that you can also elevate your look by getting your nails done or wearing knuckle rings.
#22
“Human Skin” Shoes
Liz 2 years ago
She needs a slightly longer skirt to really sell it. I mean if you’re going to wear skin shoes, commit to the bit!!
smugdruggler 2 years ago
I hadn't seen the line 'til I read your comment, but I see what you mean.
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corgiobsessed00 2 years ago
I go get the unsee juice from Zara the squid...
Load More Replies... Mangelo Il Fumatori 2 years ago (edited)
ngl, these creeped me out a lot.
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#23
The Worst Tennis Shoes Ever
#24
Transparent Athletic Shoes
rs_adahl1971 2 years ago
Why isn't he wearing socks too? I have to wear socks unless I'm wearing my crocks
ConstantlyJon 2 years ago
ok, I understand that they are transparent shoes but why would you make it even more cringe by not wearing socks?!?! I can smell this picture and I hate it.
Kirsten St John Brown 2 years ago (edited)
I hate this, but I can't really be a hypocrite. I have a pair of transparent Dr Marten style boots and I love them. Mostly so I can show off my nerdy socks. I never understood why they make such cool patterned socks when other people can't see them. The boots do steam up unfortunately. Never ever wear shoes like this without socks though. Yuck.
She also pointed out that people tend to “add too much on when the outfit they’re wearing already has a lot going on which makes it seem tacky.” Less is more, in some cases.
The designer shared that “it’s hard to notice your own mistakes on your outfits until someone points them out because, to you, it seems amazing because it is your work and you want to be proud of it, without realizing it may not be exactly as good as you think.” In other words, an outsider’s opinion on your ideas can be invaluable!
#25
USB Shoes
Nacho Man Sandy Ravage 2 years ago
If you put them on the right feet, it's wrong so you change them over and they're still wrong so you put them back on the original way they fit perfectly
#26
Running Shoes...for Elves??
Tina Harnish 2 years ago
Haven't been seen since the 1480s. For real, a king had to ban the long points because people couldn't walk in them. People tied the points to their legs so they could walk.
#27
These Shoes
Which of these shoe designs made you do a double take, dear Pandas? Which pairs did you loathe? Were there any that you’d actually love to wear in public? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Meanwhile, for some more delightful posts about the ‘Awful Taste But Great Execution’ subreddit, check out Bored Panda’s recent features right here, here, and here.
#28
Pantalones: Shoes That Are Also Leather Pants
rs_adahl1971 2 years ago
That doesn't look like leather. Looks like satin or spandex, but not leather.
Daffydillz~ 2 years ago
My thoughts exactly. There's no way that leather would be that form-fitting.
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Upstaged75 2 years ago
Yes! Except hers are like complete body suits with attached boots. I find them gross.
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Mathieu Brouwers 2 years ago
My daughter didn't have to take off her extra tall boots (full leg length).
Load More Replies... Marcellus II 2 years ago
And then visit an asian house & required to take shoes off.
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#29
Buzz Lightyear Shoes
ChariotLee 2 years ago
Instead of "there's a snake in my boot!" It's "there's a foot in my mouth!"
#30
Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatball Shoes
Marie Dahme 2 years ago
I’m gonna say if I saw someone show up at an Italian restaurant wearing these, I’d be constantly wondering if she dropped something on her shoes !
#31
"Italian Metal Tip Party Shoes"
rs_adahl1971 2 years ago
For some reason they remind me of one of those cars that have hydraulic lifts on the to make them go up and down. Don't know why
#32
These Custom Dress Shoes
RafCo (he/him) 2 years ago
I'm guessing the other shoe says Progresso. Ordem e Progresso (Order and Progress) are the words on the Brazilian flag. It's to remind us of the things we don't have in our country.
#33
These Shoes Make Me Sad
#34
The Infamous Adidas “Shackle Shoes”
Mara Is… A Surgeon 2 years ago
Why you want that “home probation” look (i forgot exactly what it was called
#35
Zucchini Shoes
ThatOtherPanda 2 years ago
I have questions. Are they shoes that look like zucchinis? Are they zucchinis that look like shoes? Are they edible? I could go on…
Higgleton 2 years ago
Well they're courgette in French so you got your wish
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#36
Shlooop Goop Shoes
#37
A Horse Shoe
VonBlade 2 years ago
It was Teddy Carr and Pearl Johnson in 1959. (It's a bold move to answer one at random, but I hope it ticked one off your list)
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Netflixtrip 2 years ago
*switches to screen of horse shoes and screams. HOLY F*** WHAT IS THAT*
#38
Elf Shoes? I Raise You Hoof Shoes
#39
Teacup Shoes
#40
Bowling Shoe Heel Day Look
bears. beets. battlestar galactica. 2 years ago
make them less pointed and i'm in
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#41
These Olive Garden Shoes
#42
For The Inflatable Shoe Enthusiasts Out There
Upstaged75 2 years ago
It's actually held on magnetically. There's no hole in the shoe.
Load More Replies... Marie Dahme 2 years ago
A little weird but I’m okay. I just miss jelly shoes not blow up shoes lol
#43
These Heels With No Heel
#44
Pimp My Shoes
Paulo Freitas 2 years ago (edited)
Nothing to do with cowboys, those are sabatons inspired shoes ( and nicelly done if Im honest ), though sabatons normaly don't have spurs, there are a few histórical ones that indeed had them.
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Paulo Freitas 2 years ago
Thats actually Nice.... Ladies if you ever want to impress a geeky dude.... This is a superb choice lol.
#45
Limited Edition Heineken Shoes With Lager Filled Soles
Angrywolf 2 years ago
I thought most of us Dutch people where very no nonsense and level headed, But it seems i was pretty wrong, Which bloody idiot thought this was a good idea, Thankfully these seem to be a joke, There are a few brands that sell heineken themed shoes, But i can't find the beer filled ones.
#46
Baby Shoes
rs_adahl1971 2 years ago
So wrong on so many levels. But my first question is, how's your mental health? My second question is why are those poor babies naked?
#47
For Only $967, You Can Own Long Shoes! Shoooooooes, If You Will
Edda Kamphues 2 years ago
Just because it is designer fashion does not mean it's fashionable. Or even tasteful.
Amazon QT 2 years ago
I can find a million more things I can buy with $967, like 5 or 6 SENSIBLE shoes!!!!
Load More Replies... Jeff Jefferson 2 years ago
Ah Balenciaga the people who advertise with little children and bondage-themed teddy bears ... tasteful all the way.
#48
These Shoes
#49
Sax Shoes
WallyTheAlien 2 years ago
I'm just picturing a jazz musician seeing someone wearing this in the street and trying to play their feet xD
#50
Teeth Shoes
#51
IKEA Yeezy Shoes
Lakota Wolf 2 years ago
Kanye is such a trash human being that I don't condone buying any of his shoes. Cut off even more of his profits.
#52
Cowboy Boot Tennis Shoes
Marie Dahme 2 years ago
Nope. I would never wear these in Wyoming. Would deny they were mine, that I ever saw them or even knew they existed. Lol
Jilltdcatlady 2 years ago
Someone above mentioned prototypes that aren't for commercial sale. Well, these are real and for sale in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
#53
Nice Shoes
#54
Nice Shoes
#55
Crocodile Leather Shoes
#56
Leather Shoes
#57
The High Heel Sports Shoe Hybrid
Isa Reyes 2 years ago
This looks like it belongs in one of those 'I Spy' books that you would read in the primary school library
Vanessa Richardson 2 years ago
Couldn’t quite put my finger on it at first, but you’re absolutely right!
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#58
Try Social Distancing With Hair Shoes!
#59
Dolphin Shaped Shoes
#60
Actual Upcoming Shoes
#61
These Adidas Shoes
Daffydillz~ 2 years ago
I Melman is the giraffe. I think this is Marty the zebra.
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#62
These Food Bag Shoes
#63
These Shoes Are On Par
#64
High Fashion Camel Toe Shoes
Error 404 (He/They) 2 years ago
My foot would get stuck halfway in. I have teeny tiny little toes
#65
Cockroach Shoe Clips
Lakota Wolf 2 years ago
I know someone who will be horrified by these. What if Headless Roach's relatives were used to make these?!
#66
These Shoes From Japan
#67
Felt Shoes
Add New Image
What do you think ?
Kat Min 2 years ago
I knew I was gonna love most of these. The vast amjority are art project. They are creative and quirky (ok, one is disgusting, but still impressive)
MeowZer 2 years ago
I thought that same thing. Some people are so creative!
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The Best Mushroom Panda️ 2 years ago
Wow, most of them had at least one positive comment. That's awesome.
Jilltdcatlady 2 years ago
I know some of these are concept shoes, just for show. The question I have is "WHICH ONES?"
Roman Spruce 2 years ago
This is really freaking creative! Definitely weird, but pretty darn cool.
Marley Nachi 2 years ago
some of these were really cool! The ones at the end... were pretty cursed
Kat Min 2 years ago
I knew I was gonna love most of these. The vast amjority are art project. They are creative and quirky (ok, one is disgusting, but still impressive)
MeowZer 2 years ago
I thought that same thing. Some people are so creative!
Load More Replies... The Best Mushroom Panda️ 2 years ago
Wow, most of them had at least one positive comment. That's awesome.
Jilltdcatlady 2 years ago
I know some of these are concept shoes, just for show. The question I have is "WHICH ONES?"
Roman Spruce 2 years ago
This is really freaking creative! Definitely weird, but pretty darn cool.
Marley Nachi 2 years ago
some of these were really cool! The ones at the end... were pretty cursed
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