Clarks Originals
Number of products: 138
Clarks Originals – A British Footwear Icon Rooted in History
Clarks Originals is more than just a name on a shoebox—it stands as living proof of enduring British craftsmanship. The brand’s journey begins in the sleepy town of Street, Somerset, where a small tannery set the stage for global innovation. Back in 1825, Cyrus Clark sparked something new when he spotted potential in leftover sheepskin. But it was his brother, James Clark, who truly kicked things off, transforming scraps into the now-famed Brown Petersburgh slipper. From these humble beginnings, Clarks grew into a household name, celebrated for both its time-honored heritage and its constant drive to push boundaries.
Dive into the Clarks business archives and you'll uncover more than two centuries of reinvention and creativity. William Clark ushered in an era of early mechanisation that didn’t just speed up production—it changed how shoes were made across Britain. Innovations like the “Hygienic range”—the first shoes designed to fit the unique contours of each foot—cemented Clarks as pioneers in comfort and anatomical design. That commitment to fit and well-being? If you’ve ever slipped on a pair, you know it’s still at the heart of every shoe today.
From Brown Petersburgh to Desert Boot – The Evolution of Clarks Originals Styles
The Clarks story is a tapestry woven from countless styles, each marking a leap forward from handmade slippers to global icons. Topping the list is the legendary Desert Boot, dreamt up by Nathan Clark in 1950. He didn’t just make another shoe—he created a cultural touchstone. Before long, clarks desert boots were everywhere: on students, artists, and rebels alike. With their signature crepe sole and pared-back silhouette, they quickly became symbols of authenticity and versatility.
But there’s more to the story than just one style. Standouts like the Wallabee and Desert Trek have crossed generations and style movements with ease. Take the Wallabee shoes: inspired by moccasins, they found their way into music scenes from Manchester’s Britpop era to the streets of New York hip-hop—immortalized by icons like Wu-Tang Clan’s Ghostface Killah. And in Jamaica? “Jamaicans wearing Clarks” isn’t just a phrase; it’s a badge of street style honor, helping cement the brand as an international cult favorite.
The Philosophy Behind Clarks Originals – Innovation, Inclusivity, and Cultural Relevance
If there’s a secret ingredient behind Clarks’ success, it’s their unwavering commitment to quality and forward-thinking design. Over the years, Clarks has rolled out groundbreaking technologies like Active Air™ for cloud-like comfort, and iconic tools such as the trusty Clarks foot gauge. That means shoes tailored not just for one kind of foot—but for all shapes and sizes, especially when it comes to children’s ranges with multiple width options. This inclusive spirit echoes throughout their collections for men and women alike.
The soul of Clarks is deeply rooted in Quaker values—think integrity, fairness, and community—that have shaped each chapter of its history. From early trailblazers like Roger Clark to modern leaders such as Stella David, these principles run deep. The company invests in local communities and ethical manufacturing practices to this day. Just look at initiatives like The Shoe Museum in Somerset or their support for the Alfred Gillett Trust—both underscore a genuine respect for preserving history while sharing the Clarks story with generations yet to come.
Clarks Originals Collaborations and Contemporary Impact
The modern landscape has seen Clarks Originals collaborations with some of streetwear’s biggest heavyweights—think Supreme, OVO, Herschel Supply Co., and more. These partnerships breathe new life into classics like suede Wallabees or beeswax Desert Boots, introducing bold twists with fresh materials or limited-edition details. It’s a balancing act: staying true to legacy while constantly sparking conversation in today’s style circles.
Their creative streak doesn’t stop there. New releases such as Torhill take inspiration from the archives but add contemporary flair—think vintage vibes fused with next-level materials and construction. Whether you’re reaching for updated Wallabees or Desert Treks in daring colors and luxe finishes, these shoes remain must-have staples in wardrobes around the globe.
The Enduring Appeal of Clarks Originals – Timelessness Meets Innovation
Why do Clarks Originals never seem to go out of style? It’s simple: they marry old-world craftsmanship with fearless innovation. Whether you’re drawn by nostalgia for classics like the Desert Boot or eager to snag the latest collab or exclusive colorway, there’s always something fresh to discover. With deep roots in Somerset and eyes fixed firmly on what lies ahead in global style culture, the legacy that began with Cyrus Clark is still unfolding—always original, never finished.