How HOKAs Became The “It” Sneaker Beloved By Both Marathoners & Fashion People

If you’ve spent any time looking at running shoes (or everyday ugly dad sneakers, for that matter), it’s likely that you’ve already come across HOKA. Known for its extremely cushioned soles, the chunky sneaker brand doesn’t really boast any sleek or sexy silhouettes — but that seems to be part of the overall appeal amongst fanatics who are obsessed with the cloud-like bounce of HOKA styles. And, unlike other global athletic brands that blur the line between the authentic sporty stuff with the more lifestyle-focused, non-athletic wares (that are less appropriate for actual workouts), HOKA continues to operate with a zeroed-in, singular focus: to provide solutions for people who are constantly on their feet, whether they’re marathon runners, nurses, or pavement-pounding urbanites. In other words, HOKA sticks to what it knows and doesn’t try too hard (or doesn’t even seem to care) to be something that they’re not.

“At first, our consumers consisted primarily of runners who were ‘in the know’ about athletic shoe trends, and now everyone is trying HOKA — college kids, Olympic athletes, streetwear influencers, fashion designers, walkers, people who are recovering from an injury, etc.,” Gretchen Weimer, HOKA’s Global VP of Product, writes me in an email. “Our dedication to providing both an exceptional product and an ethos of inclusivity has led to a substantial amount of word-of-mouth recommendations that has propelled us to become one of the fastest-growing brands in the industry.” (On the topic of the brand’s inclusive styles, Weimer writes, “We know that men and women often share the same desire for both colorful or neutral-colored footwear, but the difference comes down to the wearing occasion. The approach with our all-gender styles was more driven by that desire, and not trying to specify that certain styles or colors are only for men or women; it feels more inclusive.”) And, in a series of very smart partnerships, HOKA has also catapulted into the fashion stratosphere via collaborations with hip brands like Outdoor Voices, Opening Ceremony, and Engineered Garments.

HOKA Women’s Bondi X, $200

But, even after many successful runs on limited-edition collab styles, HOKA remains loyal to the long-distance joggers who first put the brand on the map. Colorado-based Hayley Cashdollar, who has completed eight marathons, two ultramarathons, and typically runs at least an hour every day and several hours on weekends, says, “I first heard about HOKAs years ago when one of my friends was having trouble with her feet and high-impact HIIT classes. She found HOKA and loved them…so I also took the plunge and found they were perfect for my recovery runs on the day after long runs. They were like running on clouds and were noticeably more comfortable on my feet. I’m not looking for that type of comfort on all of my runs, but it has a time and place and HOKAs are a great recovery tool for me personally.” When I asked if she’s noticed how HOKAs have been embraced by style folks, she observes, “With sneakers, in general, being so popular, it feels inevitable that something as unique as the big sole on the HOKA would capture the attention of non-runners.”

NYC-based running coach and jump rope enthusiast Caitlin Lee (who has run nine marathons and over 100 road races), tells me she also discovered HOKA through word-of-mouth: “I first heard about HOKAs from my running friends in 2015 or 2016. My initial reaction was that they were ugly and bulky-looking, and it was hard to transition from the idea of ultralight shoes that also looked minimalist. The reason I gave in, though, was because they are truly very supportive and well-made. I feel that they actually impacted my running form, forcing me to use more of my foot, rather than just running on my forefoot,” she says. Plus, in Williamsburg, Brooklyn where she lives, “people stop me on the street all the time — if I’m at a stoplight to cross, someone always has a comment [on my HOKAs]. And I definitely see people just wearing them with dresses or jeans.”

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When HOKA sent over a pair of Bondi X for me to test drive, I first thought the brand sent me the wrong size — the shoes looked huge. Turns out, I was fooled by the protruding soles. The sneakers did fit true to size. And, the soles were so bouncy and cushy that I felt like I had slight motion sickness (which quickly dissipated once I got used to the squishiness). The shoes also have a rocking quality to them that makes me want to spring forward. As a person who primarily runs for the bus or subway, and occasionally runs for the purpose of cardio (though, TBH, I can only really do up to one mile before I’m pooped), I can see how HOKAs encourage “running behavior.” Despite the soles being so thick, the shoes are actually super lightweight because of all the advanced technical details.

“A few elements that make HOKAs stand out are our Meta-Rocker geometry, which complements the natural gait cycle and reduces the height differential between heel and toe,” says Weimer. “And our styles are equipped with carbon fiber plates, allowing for a propulsive ride as the plate curls under toes to deliver a smooth transition through the gait cycle.”

At the time of writing this, I’ve been wearing HOKAs for six months now and I can confidently say that these sneakers continue to hold up performance-wise (a major upside to such chonk soles is that the wear-and-tear happens far more slowly). The spring in my step hasn’t lost any bounce and, on the occasion that I do go out for a jog, these shoes offer a comfortable cradle-cushion so it doesn’t feel like my heels are digging into the pavement with every impact. These Bondi X’s have got me lighter on my feet and the propulsion actually encourages me to run longer at a steadier pace because the springy sensation simply feels nice on my legs. On the style front, my HOKAs are worn with regularity — they look as “rad dad” with a pair of jeans as they do with activewear. The only complaint I have is that my once-white HOKAs are now thoroughly lived-in and dirty, but that’s on me (and my feet).

Below, I asked Weimer to identify and elaborate on HOKA’s five top-selling sneaker styles for women, what activity they’re best suited for, and how each style is differentiated. And, for your sneaker-shopping convenience, these are also sorted in the order of most hyped to least hyped, based on real customer ratings and reviews found on hoka.com.

HOKA Women’s Bondi 7, $160

Product Breakdown: Available in 10 colors, widths regular and wide, women’s sizes 5–12
Best For: Road running
What The Brand Says: “This is the most cushioned shoe in the HOKA road shoe lineup, delivering a smooth, balanced ride over any distance with its ultra-soft memory foam designed to accommodate a narrower heel and a collar that conforms to a wide variety of ankles, cradling the Achilles,” says Weimer.
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 4,412 reviews on hoka.com
What HOKA Fans Say: “I have very wide feet and usually have to resort to men’s shoes to get the width I need. Hoka Bondis are so very comfortable, and I can get them in women’s styles! My shoes are so very comfortable and I love them very much. I’ve now gotten my husband, my two best friends, and their husbands to get Hokas for themselves. One of the men even claims that wearing them has helped his back issues a bit. I love these shoes, and highly recommend them. I’m on my third pair BTW, and have no intentions of ever changing brands.”

HOKA Women’s Speedgoat 4, $145

Product Breakdown: Available in 7 colors, widths regular and wide, women’s sizes 5–11, all gender sizes M5/W6–M14/W15, and in waterproof GORE-TEX
Best For: Trail running
What The Brand Says: “Named for HOKA athlete Karl ‘Speedgoat’ Meltzer, the Speedgoat 4 is part of an award-winning family known for making quick work of technical terrain. Grippy on the uphill and secure on the downhill, the Speedgoat 4 is fit for every trail,” says Weimer.
The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars and 525 reviews on hoka.com
What HOKA Fans Say: “These are hands down the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever worn. I’m an RN, running on my feet all day, days on end. These are awesome, comfortable and cute! I literally feel like I have a bounce in my step.”

HOKA Women’s Clifton 8, $140

Product Breakdown: Available in 7 colors, widths regular and wide, women’s sizes 5–12
Best For: Road running
What The Brand Says: “The Clifton 8 delivers the perfect combination of soft and light with one of our most energetic foams to date, perfect for pounding pavement,” says Weimer.
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 408 reviews on hoka.com
What HOKA Fans Say: “I got the Clifton 8 after reading so many reviews, and seeing they had a 30-day wear and return policy. I wore them for park days at Disney World, and they are the first shoe in years to make my feet feel the same in the morning and at night. I have broken my big toe, and have Plantar Fasciitis in my right foot, so no shoe is ever comfortable too long, but these were great. They are like walking on clouds. And I didn’t need to do much breaking in before wearing them to the parks. I wore them a day or two to work before heading to Disney. Highly recommend!!!”

HOKA Women’s Carbon X 2, $180

Product Breakdown: Available in 8 colors, regular width only, women’s sizes 5–11
Best For: Road running
What The Brand Says: “Positioned as an endurance racer, the Carbon X2 delivers the same propulsive speed as its predecessor in an adaptable silhouette geared for training and racing alike,” says Weimer.
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 109 reviews on hoka.com
What HOKA Fans Say: “These are wonderful! I am loathe to praise them too much, yet, as it’s only been a few dozen miles, but – fingers crossed – I’ve had no ITB/knee issues since the switch [to these sneakers], and have been loving the sheer feeling of propulsion in these.”

HOKA Women’s Rincon 3, $120

Product Breakdown: Available in 5 colors, widths regular and wide, women’s sizes 5–12
Best For: Road running
What The Brand Says: “Delivering the best cushion-to-weight ratio on the market, the Rincon 3 is an extremely light silhouette with an asymmetrical tongue, thinner pull tab, and a vented-mesh upper for ultimate breathability,” says Weimer. “Also, our extra-light midsole foam sports aggressive cutouts and enhanced rubber coverage for improved durability.”
The Hype: 3.9 out of 5 stars and 36 reviews on hoka.com
What HOKA Fans Say: “Man… I’m usually a Clifton girl but I was really interested to give the Rincon a try and I’m SO glad I did. I was a little nervous about how light the shoes were out of the box, like cmon these are really gonna feel good?!?! Well butter my biscuit YEPPPPP! I felt super light and my feet and the responsiveness of the shoes is impressive! Glad I made the switch!!”

This story was originally published on October 18, 2021.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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Kahlana Barfield Brown On Shopping Secondhand & Why Jeans Go With Everything

Style and beauty expert Kahlana Barfield Brown is an avid thrifter. If you follow her on Instagram, you know that her styling videos and fashion photos often leave her audience wondering where she finds those unique and chic pieces, especially her denim collection. Turns out, Barfield Brown gets many staples of her impressive wardrobe from secondhand shopping. 

Since the pandemic hit and searching through vintage racks at thrift shops in real life was put on hold, Barfield Brown has still found a way to make it work, partnering with Facebook Marketplace to continue her secondhand shopping experience virtually, and declutter her own closet at the same time. Beyond just making space for new items this New Year, her goal is for consumers to be more intentional about sustainability with their wardrobes without feeling overwhelmed. Instead of buying new clothes, she wants more of us to search secondhand first. R29Unbothered caught up with Barfield Brown, who shared helpful tips on how to elevate the fashion pieces she’s found, tricks for figuring out what to sell from her closet on FB marketplace, and trends she’s eyeing in 2022.

Unbothered: How long (or often) have you shopped secondhand and what pieces do you typically look for? 

Kahlana Barfield Brown: No matter what the occasion is I always feel like there’s a way to wear denim. Even if it’s like a very, very dressy event, I love to dress up a great pair of jeans. I always find the most unique and interesting vintage jeans. Before the world changed, I would go to the Lower East Side in New York and I would just spend a Saturday going into vintage shops trying on different kinds of cuts and styles. I’m not really going into stores now. So for me, Facebook Marketplace is like virtual thrifting. I mainly use it at the moment to shop for different denim.

Kahlana, how long have you been using FB Marketplace and what three pieces have you purchased that have become staples in your closet?

KBB: I’ve been using Facebook Marketplace for a few months now. I’ve always been like an avid thrifter in combination with, just like a shopper in general. There’s nothing better for my personal look than mixing a great thrift piece with a designer piece. The main thing for me is that I’m a denim girl,  so I would probably say a pair of jeans, cargo pants, and a great black designer clutch that I was able to snag are staples in my closet.

Growing up, how did your family influence you when it came to shopping secondhand and thrifting? 

KBB: To be honest, it wasn’t something that I grew up doing. I definitely would shop in my mom’s closet in high school. I wore a lot of her older pieces that she didn’t wear anymore. It’s so funny how the tables turned because now my mom will not get out of my closet. But it wasn’t until I moved to New York after I graduated from college and I started working at InStyle and I was in Paris with an editor that I actually went into a thrift store. She showed me where she’d go shopping for vintage pieces to find out of season one-of-a-kind items. I really learned then to appreciate thrifting. 

“I asked myself three questions going through pieces: when was the last time I wore this item, will I ever wear this item again, and will I be mad if I see someone else with this item knowing I had it, but I let it go?”

Kahlana Barfield Brown

In an age where sustainability is being treated as a “trend” (and sometimes as a luxury), how can brands ensure sustainability remains accessible?

KBB: One thing that I’ve noticed is that a lot of designer brands are playing with vintage and recycled material which I absolutely love. For example, they take a pair of denim and add patchwork, then market the price up to $2000. That goes against everything that we’re trying to do here. I feel like brands need to be more aware of that and really make it more accessible to people.

What are some tips for people looking to declutter their closet and want to sell items on the FB marketplace?

KBB: I just did this. I asked myself three questions going through pieces: when was the last time I wore this item, will I ever wear this item again, and will I be mad if I see someone else with this item knowing I had it, but I let it go? I like to donate, resell, and give away items so that I’m able to see what I have in my closet. But there are definitely things that are in my closet  I probably will never wear and still have tags on them. [Sometimes] I l purchase  [items] because they are like a piece of art to me. So when you’re ready to sell make sure to take quality photos of the pieces to post. To me, that is like an indicator that this person cared and took care of this piece and cares about the way it’s displayed. 

For people still working from home and who may be struggling with their personal style, can you share some easy style advice/tips that can help with being camera-ready?

KBB: I think picking out some tops that are eye-catching with textures or patterns is a great start. I usually add earrings that are gold or have some color to them. I have my go-to tops because I know that they always work for me. I know this sounds extra but I test out my looks and take screenshots to see how I’d look on a real call and make sure my lighting is right as well. The good thing about it is that you only have to worry about the upper half of your body. 

What trends are you most excited for in 2022?

KBB: Back in September 2021, I went to fashion week and the thing I like most is that people just want to be comfortable. Athleisure really is not going away. This is great because naturally, my style is very comfortable. I love sweatsuits and dressing them up and down. What I’m excited about is the continuation of trends like oversized denim, trench coats, and wedge boots. I’m a heel girl too so I love that I’ll be able to wear a comfortable heel and still feel sexy. I do feel like [everything]  is still going to be very comfortable. That’s exciting to me because all the trends that are coming out are all things that I naturally incorporate within my style.

This interview was edited for length and clarity.

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30 Non-Boring Valentine’s Day Gifts For Your Guy

Valentine’s Day can befuddle the best of us. On top of the whole holiday serving as a dedicated relationship reminder (aka whether we have one or not), there’s an added tricky-gifting component too. It's a February 14 shopping tradition that can become even further complicated when the Y-chromosomes in our lives aren't longing for standard floral arrangements or heart-shaped chocolate boxes.

But! There's no need for present drama in 2022 because we’ve got the dude-approved goods lined up right here to save you from last-minute gifting fiascos. Scroll on for our curated hit-list of creative gadgets to unique fashion finds and very cool grooming products that your main man (whether best bud, family member, or partner for life) will adore. And for those who are opting out of V-Day altogether, the 30 finds ahead are all still single-and-fabulous-approved.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team, but if you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Elaine Valentine's Day Spongeworthy Card

If you and your partner like to keep things simple with a thoughtful card exchange, look to Etsy for well-made, totally unique designs. After all, nothing says "romance" quite like Elaine Benes' ultimate stamp of approval.

presspops Elaine Valentine's Day Spongeworthy Card, $, available at Etsy

Cable Guys The Child Device Holder

This miniature Baby Yoda is perfectly sized to hold his gaming controller or iPhone — it also uses the Force to charge tech devices (okay, fine, a 6-ft micro USB cable).

Cable Guys The Child Device Holder, $, available at Urban Outfitters

Duke Cannon Beer & Bourbon Soap Box

Treat him to a toiletry lineup that will keep his top-shelf on brand. Duke Cannon's epic bundle contains three bars of beer soap (a sandalwood-scented Busch Beer, citrus-woodsy IPA, and warm-cedarwood Budweiser) paired with one bar of bourbon soap (an oak-barrel-scented Buffalo Trace Bourbon).

Duke Cannon The Beer & Bourbon Box, $, available at Duke Cannon Supply Co.

Man Crates Grand Jerky Heart

This year, say it with...beef jerky. If your man has a special place in his heart for dried, smoked meats, then this gift box will surely delight.

Man Crates Grand Jerky Heart, $, available at Man Crates

Tetra Valise Keychain

For men who prefer to roll their own: this sleek and nifty keychain contains a hexagon-shaped interior chamber made to store his rolled smokes (big and small).

Tetra Valise Keychain, $, available at Tetra

Sailor Moon Sailor Scouts Tee

If you've recently turned one of his tees into one your favorite sleep shirts, gift him this incredibly rad graphic style.

Urban Outfitters Sailor Moon Sailor Scouts Tee, $, available at Urban Outfitters

Hot Tools Beard Straightener Brush

Gift him the tool he never knew he needed to tame his unkempt beard hairs. The before-and-after shots of dudes across the web all point towards this being a very good buy — as one partner put it, "Works like a charm. It's sleek and lightweight and does its job. I'm glad I bought it for my boyfriend because his beard was getting unruly, but now maybe he will actually DO something with it!"

Hot Tools Men’s Beard Straightener Brush, $, available at Amazon

Uncommon Goods Make Your Own Hot Sauce Kit

Bring the heat this Valentine's Day with a DIY hot sauce kit that allows you to get creative in the kitchen. (Bonus points if you put your taste buds to the test with an at-home Hot Ones challenge.)

Uncommon Goods Make Your Own Hot Sauce Kit, $, available at Uncommon Goods

Bevel Beard Trimmer

If your dad's still reaching for his circa 1990s-beard trimmer, upgrade his life with this top-rated ultra-sleek model by Bevel. (Plus: It's cordless!)

Bevel Beard Trimmer, $, available at Amazon

CamelBak Stoaway 2L Insulated Reservoir

Fuel your man's next outdoor adventure with this insulated pack, which includes a two-liter reservoir to last through any hike or cycling trip.

CamelBak Stoaway™ 2L Insulated Reservoir, $, available at CamelBak

DUER All Weather Denim Relaxed

This isn't just your run-of-the-mill pair of good-looking jeans. This performance-stretch denim is water and wind-proof, making it perfect for winter. (Plus, the durable denim will keep its shape and hold up for years to come.)


DUER All-Weather Denim Relaxed, $, available at DUER

ProsourceFit Acupressure Mat

If he's into his mind-body connection, likes to meditate, or could just use some damn tension relief, then this bestselling acupressure mat will do trick.

ProsourceFit Acupressure Mat, $, available at Amazon

Gogogo Laser Golf Range Finder

If he's into golf, we're pretty sure this range finder with cutting-edge pin-seeking and flag-lock technology is a gift he'd love to get.

Gogogo Sport Gogogo Sport Vpro Rangefinder, $, available at Amazon

Star Wars The Mandalorian Baby Yoda Chia Pet

Maybe his WFH space could use a little greenery — so, here's a plant pet he'll actually be excited to watch grow.

Chia Star Wars The Mandalorian Baby Yoda Pet, Terra Cotta, $, available at Amazon

Great Jones Holy Sheet Baking Pan

This pun's for all the big baking guys out there! Gift him something shiny and new he can whip you up some Valentine's Day treats on.


Great Jones Holy Sheet, $, available at Great Jones

Carhartt Knit Cuffed Beanie

Beanies are a lot like friends: he can never have too many (and already has a lot).

Carhartt Men's Knit Cuffed Beanie, $, available at Amazon

Theragun Mini

Theragun's mighty massager has taken the world by storm, and it's easy to see why: The device is a magic wand for sore, overworked muscles, making it a great gift if you're splurging on your fitness-loving partner this year.

Theragun Mini, $, available at Theragun

Big Hug Mug

A mug for the man who knows that season one of True Detective is the GOAT.

Applicable Pun Big Hug Mug - Ceramic Coffee Mug, $, available at Amazon

Bespoke Post Cask

Transform his love of spirits into a constructive activity — this reusable kit will have him brewing up and bottling his very own aged whiskey at-home in time for V-Day dinner.

Bespoke Post Charred American White Oak Mini Barrel, $, available at Bespoke Post

Cole Haan Men's GrandPrø Tennis Sneaker

Upgrade his ancient pair of sneaks with something that strikes the perfect balance of knock-around luxe.

Cole Haan GrandPrø Tennis Sneaker, $, available at Cole Haan

6-in 1 Multitool Pen Gadget

This nifty little hand gizmo isn't just a sleek writing utensil; it's also a level, ruler, phone/tablet stylus, and both a flathead and Phillips screwdriver all in one. (Don't mind if we order one for ourselves, TBH...)

‎CRANACH 6-in 1 Multitool Pen Gadget, $, available at Amazon

Judy The Starter Emergency Preparation Kit

If your guy's the survivalist kind, we'd suggest a sweet Valentine's Day emergency-preparedness kit. Judy's bright-orange waterproof fanny pack contains a streamlined safety lineup of First Aid medical supplies, a whistle, glow sticks, emergency blanket, ponchos, dust mask, and meal replacements.

Judy The Starter, $, available at Huckberry

LEGO Creator James Bond Aston Martin DB5 10262

Appeal to your guy's inner child with an all-grown-up LEGO set in the likeness of 007's iconic set of wheels.

LEGO Creator James Bond Aston Martin DB5 10262, $, available at Target

Lululemon ABC Jogger

His sad college hey-day sweatpants could use an upgrade — this bestselling performance pair from Lululemon is just as soft and won't embarrass him OR you whilst errand-running around town.

Lululemon ABC Jogger Warpstreme, $, available at Lululemon

The Best Paste

If your significant other has ever gone to the barber with a photo of Ryan Reynolds or Daniel Craig...or Jake Gyllenhaal...or Shawn Mendes (should we go on?), chances are they've unknowingly come across the work of master stylist and celebrity groomer Kristan Serafino. This matte-finish, firm-hold hair paste from her very own brand is leading man hair in a jar — and is as close as one can possibly get to booking her for what we can only assume would be a very expensive house call.

The Best Paste The Best Paste.™, $, available at The Best Paste

Artifact Uprising Color Series Photo Book

Appeal to your partner's sentimental side by commemorating your most special memories via an elevated photo book.

Artifact Uprising Color Series Photo Book, $, available at Artifact Uprising

Bellroy Note Sleeve Wallet

Dads, grandpas, husbands, VIP buds... they'll all appreciate this high on the quality, low on the bulk wallet. It's made of superior leather, comes with a coin holder, secret pocket, comes in ten colors, and a three-year warranty. Boom.

Bellroy Note Sleeve, $, available at Bellroy

Maude Rise Condoms

Because nothing is sexier than keeping things safe in the bedroom.

Maude rise, $, available at Maude

Nintendo Switch Lite

Win 10,000 relationship points by gifting him what's likely been collecting dust in his Amazon wish list since last year: A portable, sleek Nintendo Switch Lite — and if you're feeling extra generous, add in a game for him to enjoy.

Nintendo Switch Lite - Turquoise, $, available at Amazon

Monos Metro Sling

If your man is always on the move, help him get there in ease and style with this lightweight-yet-sturdy crossbody made from water-repellant nylon.

Monos Metro Sling, $, available at Monos

Boy Smells x Kacey Musgraves Slow Burn Scented Candle

A fancy candle he'll finally appreciate. Set the mood with this luxe Boy Smells candle (aptly named "Slow Burn") which features a warm, spicy scent profile.

Boy Smells x Kacey Musgraves Slow Burn Scented Candle, $, available at Nordstrom

Warby Parker Toddy Sunglasses

The easiest way to upgrade his look is with a pair of fresh shade blockers that you can both get behind.

Toddy, Warby Parker Toddy Sunglasses, Azure Crystal With Oak Barrel, $, available at Warby Parker

Solento Organic Reposado Tequila

This organic tequila is harvested in small batches in Jalisco, making it perfect for savoring every sip together.

Solento Organic Reposado Tequila, $, available at Drizly

Kin Euphorics Dream Light Nightcap

If he's alcohol-free, then surprise him with a trending bottle of botanical elixir that's specially crafted to encourage dreamier sleep. Kin's Dream Light "nightcap" is made from a blend of earthy adaptogens and serene nootropics (like Reishi mushrooms) that can be mixed with milk or water before bed.

Kin Euphorics Dream Light Nightcap, $, available at Kin Euphorics

The Office: Antics And Adventures From Dunder Mifflin

If rewatching The Office is among your favorite pastimes, then this pocket-sized superfan gift will be an amazing present for the Jim Halpert to your Pam Beesly.


Urban Outfitters The Office: Antics and Adventures from Dunder Mifflin, $, available at Urban Outfitters

Portable Cell Phone Touch Speaker

No more Bluetooth #struggles here — this minimally-designed wireless speaker magically connects to your phone when put in direct contact, allowing you to instantly blare your favorite songs (and let all your friends take a turn playing DJ) without any technical difficulties.

On Trend Goods Portable Cell Phone Induction Speaker, $, available at Amazon

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Twee Fashion Is Back — Here’s How To Update It For 2022

Indulge us for just one moment and cast your mind back to the early 2010s. You’re heading to Blockbuster to rent 500 Days Of Summer on DVD, bopping away to She & Him on a pair of knotted, wired headphones. Your outfit? A polka dot dress, burgundy tights, an owl necklace and a pair of ballet flats. Life is good. 

For those unfamiliar with this point in time, from 2007 to 2012, let us walk you down memory lane. Known on Tumblr as ‘twee’, the indie-adjacent aesthetic was defined by a love of “quirky” movies, music and fashion — the likes of Juno, Kate Nash and Peter Pan collars. Commodifying the idea of the hot nerd, twee was all about girls in big glasses, riding pastel-colored bikes and being “adorkable.” 

Icons of the aesthetic included Zooey Deschanel and Taylor Swift, but twee was truly an Internet phenomenon, with YouTuber Zoella rarely seen on the platform without her uniform of skater skirt and stripes. Like core hipster culture, twee fashion signified the type of person you were and what exactly you liked. More often than not, this included reading, folk songs and being kind to others. 

There were, of course, downsides to the aesthetic, which became synonymous with the manic pixie dream girl character trope. Problematic personality traits included a focus on virginal innocence, while at the fashion end of the spectrum things often centered around wifey thinness and whiteness. Happily, the recent resurgence of the trend on TikTok seems to be taking a big step away from these elements, offering up a more inclusive version of twee for the 2020s. 

Still, the twee comeback has prompted mixed reactions from millennials, with many thrilled about the return and others visibly horrified. By and large, interest in the trend has been fueled by Gen Z, who were too young to partake in the aesthetic the first time around. While many TikTok videos are indulging in the trend’s heyday, plenty of users are presenting their hopes for the look in 2022. The modernization of the trend calls for a return to twee’s original 1960s inspiration and steering well clear of the obsession with ill-fitting playsuits.

Tiktok’s microtrends often face criticism due to their short digital shelf life, but the twee revival appears to occupy a different space from the Internet’s love of fast fashion. With the potential to slot easily into an existing capsule wardrobe, new-age twee pieces are everywhere thanks to Instagram-approved brands like Rixo, Shrimps and Ganni. Ahead, take a look at how we’re updating twee for 2022.

Ballet Flats Loafers

The ballet flats of the twee era were a cute idea in theory, but two minutes into walking you could feel every pebble on the ground. Offering zero arch support, it essentially felt like you were walking barefoot (and often ended up that way once the heel wore out, two weeks after purchasing). For 2022, we’re embracing a meatier sole and sturdier shell in the form of an embellished loafer. Holding onto its twee origins with accent brooches and decorative detailing, the shoe fits well within the English teacher vibe while still looking classically cool.

Peter Pan Collars Maximalist Collars

Whether it was peeking over a batwing jumpsuit or the main feature of a cap-sleeve skater dress, the Peter Pan collar ruled the twee era. Characterized by its small size and rounded detailing, the collar was a cute addition to any outfit, allowing millennials to live out their Disney-esque fantasies. As we dive into 2022, we’re taking the essence of an accent collar and dialing it up a notch. Ranging from gingham print to doily detailing and sweet ruffles, the XXL collars on the market right now fit the twee aesthetic perfectly, plus the plethora of detachable designs means you can make the look go even further.

Hair Bows Berets

Now, we’re not going to say that berets weren’t around during the core twee years, but there was a distinct preference for hair bows that cannot go ignored. From clip-ins to scrunchies and self-tied headbands, the obsession with bows was strong in the Tumblr universe. This season we’re swapping the Minnie Mouse-inspired headwear for a sweet and simple beret for a more mature take on hair accessories. Emily In Paris may have earned the hat bad reputation since last year, but in 2022, we’re taking our cue from Prince and adding a raspberry (or similarly sweet color) beret to our favorite winter fits.

Coloured Tights Tube Socks

Tights are undeniably practical: they keep your legs warm and hide the patches of hair you missed when shaving. That being said, the twee tights of the early 2010s were often painfully bright or just too busy for everyday wear. You could swap them out for the frilly socks of the creeper-Tumblr era. But we’re going for the trendy tube sock. Reminiscent of Princess Di’s iconic athleisure, the slouchy sock is the perfect partner for a patent loafer, striking a balance between laid-back luxury and an oh-so-studious vibe.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team, but we may earn commission or other compensation from the links on this page.

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Secondhand Formalwear Is More Popular Than Ever. Here’s Why

Trisha Bantigue first entered the pageant world in college in hopes of landing scholarship money, after having emancipated herself from her mother. Despite her initial reasons for participating, it quickly became a source of joy: “I ended up falling in love with the experience and making lifelong friendships and learning how to communicate and do public speaking, all while being able to pay my college tuition.” Still, dressing up for beauty pageants required a constant revolving door of dresses, accessories, and shoes that were too expensive for her. “I didn’t have the budget that some of the other girls had. I was an independent student,” Bantigue says. So she borrowed from others and turned to secondhand boutiques for the formalwear she needed for the events. 

Today, Bantigue is helping make this happen for other people via her startup Queenly, a digital destination for secondhand formalwear, which includes wedding gowns, prom dresses, and pageant-ready styles. “It really embodies this new wave of inclusivity in formal fashion,” she says. 

Indeed, boutiques, brands, and designers that cater to occasionwear often capitalize on social narratives around exclusivity that make dressing up for life’s special occasions pricey. In 2020, the average price of a wedding gown reached $2,439, according to Brides’ American Wedding Study. Meanwhile, families spent an average of $919 on prom-goers in 2018. Not only is this out of reach for some financially but, given how these looks are often worn only once, it’s environmentally unsustainable. 

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“It’s so common to buy an outfit for a formal occasion that you either don’t have many opportunities to wear or don’t love, so it ends up at the back of your closet,” says Noelle Sciacca, Women’s Editorial Lead at The RealReal. “Buying and selling formalwear on the luxury resale market is a more sustainable way to approach event dressing and it’s more cost-effective than buying new or renting, especially if you wear a piece to a few events and sell it after.” Shoppers are catching on: According to Sciacca, the online luxury consignment site has seen a significant increase in sales for formalwear, including mini bags, gowns, high heels, and cocktail dresses. 

Bantigue and her co-founder Kathy Zhou say Queenly has also experienced growth in the past year, which she credits to a cultural shift that’s making secondhand formalwear less taboo. “The media and the fashion industry have ingrained in us that, in order for you to be that Cinderella at your prom, you have to buy this brand new dress for like $900,” says Bantigue. “But our mission here is to tell women, ‘Hey, no one really looks at the tag.’”

Shruti Malliwal can attest to that: When the astrologer turned up at prom, her secondhand dress was all the rage. “I had multiple people tell me that I was the best dressed at that event,” she says. “Of course, that’s all relative, but I think most people were just not expecting it to be from a thrift store.” 

Affordability was the main reason Malliwal started looking for a secondhand gown, after her mom said she wouldn’t be paying hundreds of dollars for a one-time outfit. She found her dream look (pictured here) for $40 at a local thrift store: “I was very open to secondhand because I saw that the secondhand clothes were offering me something that didn’t look like everything else and looked like things that I actually wanted to wear,” she says. 

Monica Sallay, the blogger behind @sartorialscraps, agrees that the thrift store hunt could make for a unique story. In Sallay’s case, she found her wedding dress by accident, 10 years before she got married. Sallay was walking around her neighborhood in New York City when she spotted a white mini dress on the window of a Goodwill store. She immediately tried it on, later learning that it was a Balenciaga number that would cost her only $100. 

“I feel like it was about the time and place the dress found me because I was 18 years old and very lost,” says Sallay. “To find this holy grail of a dress felt so right and so affirming.” Ten years later, she married her now-husband during the pandemic wearing the Balenciaga dress. Sallay says it won’t be her last time. “I think this dress is special,” she says. “A lot of people don’t wear their wedding dress again, but I see myself [wearing it] many times for the rest of my life.”

Many people have gravitated toward the secondhand market following the pandemic, a time when society has been forced to question the effects of its consumer patterns on the environment. At the same time, there have also been supply-chain shortages and factory closures that have limited the distribution and production of formalwear, making it harder for prom attendees, wedding guests, bridesmaids, and brides to get their hands on brand-new dresses. 

While some opt for secondhand looks out of financial necessity and for sustainability reasons, others are drawn to resale because they don’t want to deal with the often-intimidating environments established for shopping formalwear — be it strictly scheduled appointments at bridal salons or dedicated sections inside department stores. Not only can the formalwear shopping experience feel overly, well, formal, with an assigned staff member looking after the shopper, but there are also issues around sizing. For many plus-size women, the range of sizes available in stores makes trying on items in person a frustrating experience.

To avoid interaction that stores specializing in formalwear entail, Miami-based Marissa Clark decided to shop secondhand for her cousin’s wedding last year. It was her first time attending an event since the pandemic started and she wanted to be comfortable, both while shopping and on the day of the event. “I just don’t like being in big, fancy stores at the moment,” she says. So she relied on her less crowded favorite local thrift store, scoring a Tanya Taylor silk printed dress for $25. “You can’t beat it,” she says. The experience cemented her love of thrift shopping even more: “I can go through the racks that I need to go through really quickly and have the option of leaving when I need to leave.”

There are many reasons to embrace secondhand formalwear — affordability, sustainability, and a unique story. For Bantique, it comes back to remembering how secondhand clothing made her feel like a queen, even without a crown, during her pageant days. “You don’t have to spend that much to enjoy that special day of your life,” she says.

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