Fashion & Beauty

Clarks Originals: turning a classic into a modern classic

1^st November 2013

Leyla Mai Nguyen

1 November 2013

Shoe brand Clarks dates back all the way to 1825, and still remains to be a well-established and fashionable shoe brand. Clarks’ identity oozes quality and a simple style exuding British heritage that results in classic shoes.

They say don’t fix what’s not broken, but Clarks prove why they successfully can go against that classic motto. Clarks Originals have collaborated with three brands, that similarly accentuate a simple heritage of their own, to turn their classic footwear – namely the recognisable desert boot – into a modern-day classic. The desert boot still maintains the quality and classic style but with additional touches of fabrics, making them more fashionable and contemporary for today.

Clarks Originals teamed up with Gloverall, the original duffle coat manufacturer. Gloverall’s iconic duffle coat was founded over 60 years ago, and is no doubt a British icon recognised worldwide. What better way than to combine both classics for the latest autumn/winter 2013 styles? The authentic wool and suede with a functional toggle inspired from the duffle identity is incorporated into the new desert boot that breathes British heritage and shares the same value in being timeless.

Clarks Original also teamed up with Woolrich, The Original Outdoor Clothing Company. Founded in 1830, Woolrich produces woollen clothing and fabrics for outdoor wear such as parkas. This means the clothing has to be practical, making products for those to enjoy outdoors but that are also functional. The distinctive plaid fabric has been interpreted into the style of the desert boot that results into modern classic in fusion with Clarks’ British style and Woolrich’s interpretation of iconic Americana.

Horween, founded in 1905, is the oldest and well-established US tannery producing the finest leather world-wide. Clarks Originals collaborated with Horween – an ideal collaborator because of the high level of quality and craftsmanship. Transforming the desert and wallabee boot with a stylish edge, great long-lasting quality and the finest leather that are available in different autumn colours: navy, maroon and black.