Dr. Martens, authentically underground.
Recognisable for their famous yellow seams, Dr. Martens boots and ankle boots are a fusion of authenticity and traditional manufacturing methods with an assertive style. For over 50 years now the brand known familiarly as Doc Martens has branded itself as the leather ankle boots of alternative cultures. Today, the English brand creates numerous models of boots and shoes, as well as bags. But, with the 1460, it can boast of having created a symbol that is truly cross-generational.
From factories to rock festivals.
Originally designed by Doctor Klaus Märtens to help with the recovery of injuries, as early on as 1960 these flat ankle boots establish themselves on the working shoes market as a comfortable and robust product. Launched on 1st April 1960, the 1460 boot with 8 eyes has stayed the same ever since. The uppers are sewn on with yellow thread, the two-tone soles and the tongue emphasising how comfortable the sole is with its cushion of air constituting the signature of the famous Doc Martens shoes. When skinheads decided to wear the shoes in support of the actions of the working classes, they entered into the world of alternative cultures. From then on, wearing Dr. Martens came down to displaying a certain lack of conformity with dominant codes. An symbol of a rebellious nature, the 1460 also became the favourite ankle boot of whole generations of fans of rock, punk, metal music, and also of the grungy style.
Since that period, the brand has successfully managed to expand its range, especially with the addition of leather bags and satchels. Amongst Doc Martens bags, we will remember the bag available in small, medium and large sizes as being the model that best represents the essence of the company. There is a children’s range junior Dr. Martens collection - including tots, with Doc Martens for babies.
From the stage to the catwalk.
At the beginning of the 2000's, designers, couturiers and personalities of the fashion world were invited to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Dr. Martens. Vivienne Westwood and Jean-Paul Gaultier put the 1460 on their catwalks and injected a breath of fresh air into the English company. From Sid Vicious to Joey Ramone, to celebrities such as Johnny Depp, Kate Moss and Sonia Rykiel are all fans. Wearing Dr. Martens is still a nod to the underground world, but today the ankle boot with the yellow seams is no longer simply worn by rebellious rockers. Taller models have today found their place amongst the most popular lace-up ankle boots for those men and women who are seeking comfortable town shoes.
Doc Martens leather shoes have changed along with trends in fashion, and the designers haven't shied away from a touch of fantasy. Over the years, we’ve had the pleasure of seeing plastic Dr. Martens flat lace-ups and Doc Martens Liberty shoes. If certain unusual versions didn't make a lasting impression, others continue to be iconic, not having changed since the 1960's. Amongst the brand's classic pieces, we could include the following: