Clarks Originals contemporary adaptability really is to be admired. Truly a British high-street grail that’s seen its many staples worn on the feet of the likes of your granddad (probably), Britpop icons, Jamaican rudeboys, hip-hop royalty, and, well, that’s only a pick at the corner of the sticker of boundless cherishment. There really aren’t many brands out there that can preach such an array of diversity – but Clarks Originals can.
Bitta history now. The year is 1825, and Clarks Originals has just opened its doors for the very first time, selling rugs in the village of Street, Somerset. It is opened by Cyrus Clark, along with the help of his brother, James. In 1828, James had the idea to start using the offcuts from the rugs to produce slippers – the very first of its kind to be designed by Clarks Originals, which became incredibly successful, and spurs the change from a homeware-rooted company to a more footwear-focused company.
By the time the 1900s rolled around, James’ son, William, had started to evolve and mechanise the shoemaking process – who are (for its time) the leader in innovatory footwear production. Ten years after the start of the new century, Clarks Originals are seriously in-demand, and are a must-buy for the more vogue-conscious population in 20th-century London suburbia.
Flash-forward to 1970, and the Wallabee is born. It’s been a mainstay in Brits’ wardrobes ever since, thanks to its Moccasin-inspired structure, buttery nubuck suede upper, and signature pebble crepe sole unit which can be traced back to Burmese merchants in the ’50s.
Whether the brand is collaborating with streetwear titans like Supreme, or international footballers such as Raheem Sterling – Clarks Originals’ prowess to alter to current climates over nearly two centuries to consistently sustain its position at the height of the loaf-some, lovesome, and downright stylish leaderboards is no mean feat. This is exemplified perfectly in the brand’s most recent campaign: ‘A Love Letter to the Rave’.
The collection? A quirky, abstract range of Wallabees inspired by ‘80s dance halls and acid-house subcultures. The result? Bloodee lovely. Revel in the pictures below from the event that went down at the Clarks Originals shop in King St last month, in which the brand’s short film ‘Sunset’ was played, Wallabees were worn, and canned drinks were in plentiful supply.Â
Indulge in the latest collection of Clarks Originals Wallabees right here at size?
