UGG Sandals and Flip Flops

I'm kind of amazed that Ugg boots have been made so popular. For starters, they are just plain ugly -- they ought to be called Fug Boots. But that's not the main reason, really. The thing that strikes me as entirely stupid here, is that PETA freaks like Pamela Anderson are the ones who made these boots famous.

I'll give you a second to connect those dots. Go on. Yes.... yes... almost there. YES! Very good. Pam is a PETA freak, but she thinks it's ok to wear boots made from sheepskin. Most people think sheepskin coats and boots are made by shearing alone. Errm, no, darlings. That's why we call it sheepskin.

Anyway, I'm not here to preach about it (I am not vegan or anything), I'm just noting the hypocrisy by which these fugly things became so popular. If you find these boots sexy, pretty or otherwise fashionable, that is your prerogative. But if you hear someone snicker when you walk by... you know who did it!

I know what you're thinking. Yes, I do. You're thinking that the ideal summer flip-flop should be made from something most people only use in the winter. Namely, fur. And why not? These would be fabulous in the sweltering Texas sun, don't you think? You could be hot, sweaty and more fashionable than all those idiots walking round in breathable footwear. And look, they're highly affordable. My guess would be that's because your sweaty feet are going to ruin them rather quickly and they won't want to reimburse more than that.

Price: $30

Now, these I almost like. But, if you look really closely, you'll see a bizarre little patch of wool (or whatever that is) at the heel. It looks pretty silly when you're looking down at it from above. It kind of reminds of me of a man's soul patch (that little tiny spec of hair some men have just under their lip) -- what exactly is the point? They'd be alright otherwise.

Price: $50

That's Tasmina, not Tasmania. I'm not big on sandals that go between the toes (because I don't find them comfortable) but these aren't so bad. That wool, though... that's something else entirely. These flip flops remind me of something you might have seen on that chick from Clan of the Cave Bear, for some reason. you know who I'm talking about -- that Daryl Hannah character. They aren't bad, but I wouldn't wear them.

Price: $80

I like this basic shape and style, and I've had my fair share these, but I don't think I'd go for this particular shoe. Mostly because of the stark color contrast. I like a more natural look, really. That said, they do come in other colors and the natural look might be one of them. I am just surprised to see they've made a shoe without fur!

Cost: $100