Uggs

By all measurements of fashion trend sticki-ness, Uggs ought to be so last year! In fact, so four years ago!

But, face it, Uggs are comfortable. And they are beloved by many suburban teens, teeny boppers, and moms of teens who pair them with slim jeans and chunky long sweaters. Some pair them with skirts. Some with infants. At Bearpaw Leather in Clinton, tiny Baby Ugg boots sell for $40.00.

The Ugg phenomenon refuses to die-- to go quietly to the back of the closet, and RIP next to hi-top sneakers and western-style boots.

At a Nordstrom (www.nordstrom.com) store several weeks ago, floors and shelves were strewn with empty shoe boxes and leftover Uggs in the less popular colors and styles; pink, purple, black, extra tall. Only one shorter pair in the heavily desired “sand” color was left. We scored them.

A weary salesman recounted the story: the new shipment of Uggs had arrived at 8 a.m. that morning. Almost immediately, eager buyers descended. By 1 p.m., most were gone. Some customers bought two or three pairs.

When Uggs opened its flagship store in Soho earlier this month it seemed hardly anyone in the city noticed. But an Uggs store in New Jersey would likely cause an UGGly scene: teens and moms tussling over the squat troll boots.

We don’t know why, but these boots are so New Jersey. Our feet are warm, dry and snUGG -- if a bit flat and funny looking.

We’re back on Tuesday to help you start off 2007 with a great cup of coffee.

Happy New Year!