Clog Posting

Which is why, when I phoned Tidlund to solicit her (withering, I was definite) take on two of spring’s massive trends — the befeathered, begrommeted, open-toed, high-heeled clog (see Miu Miu, above left; Louis Vuitton, above right; & Chanel) — I was surprised that he wasn’t entirely negative.

Among the clognoscenti, a visit with the Portland, Ore.-based Clogmaster, a k a Cecilia Tidlund, is the stuff of legend. Not only can you custom-design clogs from candy-colored, patent & metallic leathers, you’ll also receive a custom fitting — perhaps even a customized dressing-down about your dreadful footwear habits. (Silly me, I wore flip-flops.) Tidlund, a native of Sweden & the founder, in 1976, of two of America’s first bespoke clog companies, is an orthopedic-wellness militant à la the Soup Nazi.

First he reminded me that ‘‘we’ve seen them before.’’ Then he added, ‘‘I’d people get in to a bad fashion clog than a ballet flat or flip-flop. Flimsy shoes are ruining people’s feet. I’ve seen 12-year-olds with bunions.’’