Billie Eilish Keeps It Cool in Creepers While Taking the Stage at iHeartRadio Music Awards 2025

Billie Eilish took the stage at the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards at Dolby Theatre on Monday in Los Angeles donning a pair of creepers.

Billie Eilish speaks onstage at the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards at Dolby Theatre on March 17, 2025 in Hollywood, CalifGetty Images

The footwear in question was immediately identifiable as a pair of classic creepers, a style that has transcended generations and subcultures. Their supple black leather uppers, pristine and unblemished, stood in stark contrast to the thick, chunky white rubber soles that are a hallmark of the creeper silhouette. These soles, with their distinctive ridged pattern, not only provided exceptional grip and durability but also added a considerable amount of height, subtly elevating the wearer’s stature.

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The meticulous stitching around the toe box was a testament to the shoe’s craftsmanship. It served both a functional and aesthetic purpose, reinforcing the shoe’s construction while also drawing the eye to the shoe’s classic lines. This subtle detail, along with the shoe’s overall understated design, exuded an air of effortless cool that has made creepers a perennial favorite among fashion-conscious individuals.

Creepers, a shoe style characterized by their thick, chunky rubber soles and classic black leather uppers, has origins can be traced back to the 1940s, when they were initially worn by soldiers during World War II to provide extra grip and durability on rough terrain.

After the war, creepers gained popularity among Teddy Boys, a British subculture known for their rebellious style. These shoes resonated with the Teddy Boys’ desire to stand out and challenge societal norms. In the 1970s, creepers saw a revival among punk rockers, who embraced their bold and rebellious aesthetic.

(L-R) FINNEAS and Billie Eilish, winners of the Album of the Year – Pop award, attend the Winners Walk at the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards at Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California on March 17, 2025. Broadcasted live on FOX. Getty Images for iHeartRadio

In recent years, creepers have gained mainstream appeal, with celebrities like Billie Eilish and Rihanna sporting them. Their versatility allows them to be paired with a variety of outfits, from casual streetwear to more formal attire. Today, creepers continue to be a popular choice for fashion-conscious individuals who appreciate their unique style and timeless appeal.

Eilish, known for her distinctive style, has been seen sporting a variety of high-end brands like Gucci, Jimmy Choo, and Burberry, as well as popular footwear brands like Converse, Nike, and Balenciaga. However, she also demonstrates a penchant for more alternative choices, such as Etnies. This was evident at the Glamour Women of the Year Awards in October, where she honored her mother. Her style choices highlight her willingness to defy conventional fashion norms and embrace a more eclectic and personal style, incorporating both luxury brands and more understated, alternative options into her wardrobe.