Saint Laurent's latest menswear collection, unveiled during Paris Fashion Week, has become a focal point of online discussion, largely due to the introduction of fully transparent men's dress shoes. Designer Anthony Vaccarello presented the controversial footwear as part of the Spring-Summer 2027 collection during an immersive runway show at a modern art museum.
Models walked through a fog installation wearing the clear plastic shoes, which quickly captured the attention of attendees and online audiences. Vaccarello reportedly commented on the design choice, noting the historical difference in footwear expectations between men and women. "I asked myself: ‘Why torture women with plastic shoes, but not men?’" he was quoted as saying.
The design has drawn varied reactions, with some fashion commentators and social media users expressing disbelief and criticism. Jeff Lack, a men's personal stylist, suggested that the conventionality of men's footwear is rooted in practical and aesthetic considerations, stating, "men aren’t typically known for having aesthetic feet or maintaining a rigorous foot care routine." He described the shoes as having "‘dinosaur vibes’ and are a bit creepy," suggesting Vaccarello's intention was to provoke discussion.
Social media influencer 'Fashion Critical' also voiced skepticism, questioning if designers are testing the limits of consumer willingness to purchase unconventional items. "I have long suspected that fashion designers are trolling us and trying to see how much rich people are willing to spend on ugly things," she shared in a video. She also pointed out the irony of the collection's theme, "Beyond the Fog," noting that the plastic shoes were likely to become fogged with moisture.
Online commentary mirrored these sentiments, with users on platforms like Instagram expressing concerns about sweat and condensation buildup within the shoes, and the potential for an unpleasant aesthetic. Many users agreed that visible men's feet in such a context are undesirable, with comments ranging from humorous observations about potential awkwardness to outright expressions of the "ick" factor.
Beyond the transparent footwear, Vaccarello's collection also featured other elements that challenged traditional menswear, including liberal use of gold, sheer tops, slim-fitting pants, and bright parachute jackets. However, the clear shoes have undeniably become the most talked-about aspect of the show, successfully generating widespread attention for the Saint Laurent brand.