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10 Cheugy Things We Love and Will Never Get Rid Of—And 5 That Have to Go

written by JESSICA WELSH

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In case you missed it, we’ve got a new word in town: Cheugy. First coined by a TikToker/Instagrammer, it’s said to be “hard to explain but easy to recognize.” It basically means something’s out of style. The word has now been written about by both The New York Times and The Cut, so it’s safe to say that it’s here to stay.

While it’s not quite “basic,” basic things and cheugy things can overlap. It applies not only to fashion but also to pop culture, home decor, and even behavior. While the most obvious examples of cheugy—chevron, wooden signs with phrases like “Live Laugh Love,” and bejeweled statement necklaces—are easy to spot, some things are a bit harder to identify.

That’s why we’ve put together this list of things that have been labeled cheugy—some of them we still love and can’t bear to part with, and some of them simply have to go (sorry, but it’s true). Keep reading to find out what they are:

 

Cheugy Things We Love and Aren’t Getting Rid Of

 

1. Nike running shorts

Nike running shorts may not be cute, but these shorts are all about comfort and convenience. We just know you have 10 pairs of them in your drawers from your college days, and your go-to comfy look is these shorts plus an oversized T-shirt. It’s OK, we’re the same. And we’re keeping them. 

NIKE
Tempo Dri-FIT Running Shorts

4 colors available

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NIKE
Dri-FIT Tempo Running Shorts

3 colors available

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2. Ugg boots

We’ve been saying it for a while now, but we want everyone to know that Ugg boots are back, baby. While you won’t find us wearing Bailey or knit Uggs (TOO cheugy), we’re definitely keeping some styles. Uggs are perfect and easy shoes for cold weather, and something about them really gives model-off-duty vibes. Plus, J-Lo was spotted in them last winter, sooooo…

UGG
Classic Mini II Genuine Shearling Lined Boot

6 colors available

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UGG
Classic II Genuine Shearling Lined Short Boot

7 colors available

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UGG
Ultra Mini Classic Boot

3 colors available

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3. Cheeky mugs

We know there’s a spot in our cabinets for cute Target mugs with a cheesy yet fun saying. Things like, “But first, coffee,” a pop culture reference, your initial, your zodiac sign, a cheeky little saying, or a funny pun are all cute, and they’re all here to stay. 

Threshold
Hot Stuff Stacking Mug Pink
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Etsy | Kelly Elizabeth Dsigns
Friends Inspired Coffee Mug
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4. Anything Bath & Body Works

While shopping at a good ol’ Bath & Body Works might seem like we’re just channeling our inner middle school selves, you have to admit that they just don’t miss. They have the best candles (and by that we mean affordable and long-lasting) and cute gift sets. Don’t forget the great lotions, hand soaps, body washes, and even body sprays to keep your home stocked and you smelling great.

Bath & Body Works
Rose Water & Ivy 3-Wick Candle
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Bath & Body Works
Aloe Water Gentle Foaming Hand Soap
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5. Pop culture graphic tees

Yes, graphic tees that reference TV shows, movies, or other pop culture phenomenons have been labeled cheugy, but we still think they’re cute. If you spot a T-shirt with your favorite TV show quote on Etsy and it brings a little smile to your face, then treat yourself. 

Etsy | H Town Apparel
Schrute Farms Shirt
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Etsy | Deep In The Heart Tees
Rosebud Motel Shirt
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6. Ankle strap block heels

While there are definitely newer, cuter, and trendier heel options out there, this type of ankle strap heel has secured a spot in our closets. They work for every sort of semiformal or formal occasion—from a fancy dinner to a wedding—and the different neutral colors and heel height options mean there’s a pair for everyone. It might seem like every person you know owns a pair of these, but hey, that’s probably for a good reason, right?

A New Day
Michaela Heels

5 colors available

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Sam Edelman
Yaro Ankle Strap Sandal

9 colors available

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7. Friends

Friends has been included on many cheugy roundups, and while we see their point, we won’t be picking a new comfort show anytime soon. Sure, some of the plot lines are outdated, but turning on the TV and seeing the gang at Central Perk just makes you feel at home. 

 

8. Crossbody bags

We might be stirring the pot with this one; yes, crossbody bags are considered cheugy (especially when they’re actually worn across your body), but we’re hanging on to them. There are just certain events and occasions when a crossbody is necessary, so they’re here to stay. If you’re wondering what’s considered “in” instead of these, the answer is shoulder bags (yes, the ’90s are back).

A New Day
Metal Lock Boxy Large Crossbody Bag

8 colors available

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H&M
Shoulder Bag
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9. Vera Bradley duffel bags

It’s true, these bags are pretty ugly and come from one of the cheugiest brands out there, but it’s honestly going to be hard to get rid of the pink and brown paisley—nothing quite compares. These duffel bags hold so much (you can pack for an entire week vacation in one), and they’re easy to store, durable, and washable. 

Vera Bradley
Large Travel Duffel Bag

2 colors available

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Vera Bradley
Large Travel Duffel Bag

10+ colors available

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10. Headbands

At one point in our lives, headbands were super in. We hate to say it, but certain styles of headbands are a little bit cheugy. We know you’re probably only wearing them to hide third-day hair, so go ahead, keep those headbands.

Etsy | Very Shine
Linen Blend Fabric top Knot Headband

10+ colors available

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Madewell
Skinny Puffy Braided Headband

3 colors available

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Cheugy Things That Have to Go

 

1. Infinity scarves

These scarves were all the rage a few years ago, but if you still have one hiding at the back of your closet, it’s time to say goodbye. Especially if it’s plaid. Or tribal-print. Opt for a classic cashmere-like scarf that is non-infinity. 

Try these instead:

CUYANA
Alpaca Scarf

4 colors available

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H&M
Fringe Scarf

7 colors available

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2. A fitted denim jacket

Tight, fitted denim jackets have got. to. go. The cut often hits at an unflattering part of the body anyway, so let’s do ourselves a favor and opt for an oversized one, a cropped one, or a unique silhouette.

Try these instead:

H&M
Oversized Denim Jacket

2 colors available

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H&M
Twill Crop Jacket

4 colors available

Shop now

 

3. Wayfarers 

We apologize to the Ray-Ban Wayfarer owners out there, but it’s time to upgrade. While they’ve definitely had their moment in the early 2010s, it just comes down to the fact that there are more flattering and trendier pairs of sunglasses for us out there now. If you want a classic pair of Ray-Bans that never goes out of style, try an aviator. If you want something similar but more on-trend, go for an oversized or a more rounded pair. 

Try these instead:

Ray-Ban
Original 58mm Aviator Sunglasses

8 colors available

Shop now
QUAY Australia
Square Sunglasses
Shop now

 

4. Wearing your Apple Watch to formal occasions

We know you want to close your rings, but the idea of wearing an Apple Watch (especially with the silicone band) to a formal event, like a wedding, has got to end. You won’t want to see that on your wrist in those photos.

 

5. Too short denim shorts

If the pockets hang out of your denim shorts, if they’re low-rise, or if your butt cheeks are peeping out from underneath, it’s time to invest in a new pair. Trust us, you’ll be much more comfortable in a high-rise, longer pair, and you will look chic too.

Try these instead:

Abercrombie & Fitch
High Rise 4 Inch Mom Shorts
Shop now
ZARA
90's Style Jean Shorts
Shop now

 

 

While we love keeping up with trends and commenting on what the youths on TikTok are up to, the bottom line is this: Wear whatever you want and whatever makes you feel good! Embrace the cheuginess or ignore it all together. Whatever you choose to wear, decorate your house with, or watch on TV is totally up to you. This article is all in good fun, and we just want to keep you up-to-date on what’s happening in the crazy world of social media.