Is there anything better than a really good pair of slippers? Didn’t think so. We all spend more time at home now than ever before (thank you, WFH), which means we all spend more time in slippers. Get the right pair and they’ll become the ultimate comfort companion.
When buying slippers (as with everything else) it’s worth thinking about them in terms of cost-per-wear. Cheap is often a false economy, as items are less well made and therefore don’t last as long, so you end up replacing them quicker. If you spend a lot of your day wearing them, spend a little more to get a great pair that will last for a few years.
UGG
We all know and love UGG (even if you pretend you don’t) for their signature sheepskin boots. Nothing compares when it comes to cosiness. But the Aussie brand is also excellent at slippers. Its Fluff Yeah Slider and Tasman boot-slipper hybrid have both become close to cult comfort items, but it’s the Scuffette style that we champion most. The classic, slip-on house slipper style has a closed toe and is, of course, fully lined with sumptuous sheepskin. The quality is brilliant, and though at the higher end of when it comes to price, they will last you years. And no, they’re not only good for winter – sheepskin has the unique quality of regulating your temperature, meaning it keeps your feet warm when it’s cold but cool when it’s warm. Genius. If you’re after a thicker, UGG boot-style sole, opt for the Disquette style instead. Our tip? Give them a spritz of suede protector to keep them looking like new for longer.
Zara Home
Zara Home is, understandably, often overlooked when it comes to sleepwear, robes, loungewear and slippers, thanks to its fashion-only sister brand but it has a great, well-edited selection. Its slipper offering is particularly good, with everything from ladylike satin slip-ons and ballerina pump styles to cosy faux fur sliders and basic hotel-style towelling numbers. We particularly love the buckled felt clogs, which come in a few different colours and take inspiration from Birkenstock’s beloved Boston clogs – meaning if you happen to leave the house in a rush and forget to change your shoes (we’ve all done it), no one will notice. The sturdy rubber sole means they can be worn outside without the dreaded soggy slipper sole situation.
The North Face
Slippers probably aren’t the first thing that comes to mind when you think of The North Face, which is best known for its outdoor wear and puffer coats, but that’s about to change. The brand has channeled their cold-weather know-how into slippers with the Thermoball mules, which are made using the same insulating technology that’s used in their cult puffer jackets. So, they’re basically a puffer jacket for your feet. Sounds good, right?
Crocs
Crocs have gone from mocked pariah to must-have over the last few years, despite being the archetypal fugly shoe. Many have theorised as to why, but ultimately it’s because they’re comfortable and practical. The classic Crocs slipper iteration is simply a fleece-lined version of the much-loved rubber clog, so it’s hard-wearing and comfy but with added warmth.
John Lewis
A true high street national treasure, John Lewis is a one-stop-shop for pretty much anything you could need, including slippers. As well as stocking other brands, John Lewis’ in-house low-cost label Anyday has a brilliant selection of super-affordable slippers, many of which have great reviews. This pretty faux shearling babouche-style pair are even machine washable, making them extra practical.
Oysho
Oysho, a lesser-known sister brand of Zara, specialises in loungewear, underwear and workwear – and it does them really well, infusing its designs with a little bit of trend knowledge and a lot of practicality. That makes for great quality pieces that last and provide maximum comfort. Its slipper offering is reasonably priced and tastefully neutral.