My Shoelace and I Against the World
What’s better than a nice belt that ties together the perfect outfit? Easy, it’s the shoelace from the pair of Old Skool Vans I haven’t worn in five years!
Shoelace belts, made by weaving long shoelaces through belt loops, are a practical and stylish alternative to typical belts. The history of these belts is deeply rooted in the practicality of using materials already available.
The shoelace belt didn’t start on fashion runways or in glossy magazines; it started at the skatepark. In the early 2000s, skateboarders adopted the shoelace belt to solve a high-stakes problem: mobility. When you spend hours landing kickflips, grinding rails, or bailing hard on a half-pipe, a clunky leather belt is just one more thing to get in the way.
Traditional belts have a way of constantly being in the way, poking and breaking at the worst possible times. The shoelace? It’s soft, light, and stays in the position you need it.
For skateboarders, it is not about being cute or trendy; it’s about viability. But just like everything, viability turns into creativity, and that’s how we get some of our most popular trends. There is something so unique about skaters and their ability to turn what seems like nothing into a statement piece that changes how people across the globe dress. Even though I do not skateboard and probably never will, I can appreciate the style that comes along with it, and I will always give skaters their flowers when asked about my shoelace belt.
During 2020 and 2021, the shoelace belt gained much traction on Tiktok, with creators big and small taking part in the trend. Since then, the shoelace trend seems to be dying down for everyone. Well, everyone except me!
But unlike some trends that feel performative or over-produced, the shoelace belt kept its raw edge. It was never about perfection; it was about creativity, practicality, and a touch of rebellion.
The simplicity and accessibility of the shoelace belt are what make it so appealing. Everyone always has a shoelace around them, and sacrificing a pair of shoes that have been collecting dust for years is easy. You even get a cute and stylish accessory out of it.
With so many ways to style our outfits, shoelaces provide that extra bit of character that is oftentimes missing.
My shoelace provides the perfect extra style and edge without having to do too much to alter the outfit. It’s fashion that doesn’t take itself too seriously, but I believe that makes it iconic. So, while the world may have moved on to the next microtrend, I’ll still be here, looping a white lace through my belt loops, walking confidently in pants that fit just right.
No matter what, it’ll be my shoelace and I against the world.
Strike Out,
Matthew Wolfe
Boca Raton
Matty Wolfe is a Content Writer for Strike Magazine Boca. As a lover of nature and the ocean, you can probably find him sunbathing at the beach or finding a new hiking trail. If you ever do find him inside, he'll be indulging in Lana Del Rey's discography or watching old Survivor seasons. You can reach him by email at mattheww0507@gmail.com or on Instagram @mattyywolfe.
