Dr. Martens: What's Old is New Again
- adrienne490
- Oct 14, 2017
- 4 min read
Guiding the evolution of an iconic brand such as Dr. Martens from a timeless classic to a modern, on-trend classic is no small feat (really). Recently I found myself on the Dr. Martens website, hunting for a major boot upgrade. Something comfy, practical but with a definite edge. I was happy to see that the company was not only still here, but clearly growing and expanding, just as relevant and celebrated as it was some 50 plus years ago, offering cutting-edge footwear for men, women and kids alike.
Dr. Martens (or Doc Martens as it would usually be pronounced) began as a humble orthopedic-style shoe in 1945, with its creator inventing the first air-cushioned sole. The shoe evolved into a utilitarian, working man’s boot and from there became a symbol of both musical and cultural revolution, co-opted first by the Brit rockers of the 60′s and then the punk rock movement of the 70′s.
A born Anglophile, I was a huge fan of both the British Invasion rockers and the new wave of alt-rockers of the early 80′s while in my teens. I was obsessed with bands like The Cure, Depeche Mode, The Clash, and The English Beat. Of course, us New Yorkers had our punk scene as well, in Blondie and the Ramones, etc. As a suburban kid, I was very much an outsider to this world, but one way to form some link to my musical heroes was through a pair of Dr. Martens.
Finally, I got my first pair right after college, just as I was living in NYC on my own for the first time. They were a basic pair of black 1461 Original Smooths and I wore them with everything. I cherished them, and in return, they gave me some hardcore edginess when I was anything but. But as my wardrobe became more corporate over time, my Docs moved further and further back into the recesses of my closet and eventually, into the Good Will bin.
Fast forward all these years and I was awestruck by the variety of styles now available for men, women, and kids - pastels, metallics, floral prints, fringed tassels, cartoon characters, even classical art. Heels is varying heights, creeper soles, brogues - I was blown away.
The first pair of boots I spotted that I knew I had to own was the Kendra in Black Patent Lamper (shown above, below). My very first thought when I saw them was, I can totally wear these!! But then my next thought was, are you crazy? "You're 50, get a clue. You'll look ridiculous." Back and forth my mind bounced but I knew, deep in the recesses of my brain, this was happening. Because I am Fearlessly 50 and I don't give a f@ck. I want them.
If there's one thing I love in fashion, or life in general I guess, it's juxtaposition. Two contrasting elements or ideas competing against one another, yet somehow harmoniously blending together into one. In this case it's the opposing images of feminine but rough, sweet but sassy, comfy yet kickass. Yes, those patented airsoles (Airwair) were originally intended as the base for orthopedic shoes so as far as I'm concerned, it's those of us 40+ who've really earned the right to own a pair of Docs.
The Kendra is a 10-eye boot made from a type of black patent leather called lamper. All the classic "Doc DNA" is there - visible stitching, grooved sides, scripted heel loop. What's unique is that 4 inch heel with a 1 inch platform base in a contrasting light grey tone commando lug sole. The price of $140 is spot-on to me for something that is pretty close to indestructible and with a minimal amount of care is designed to last for years of regular wear.
Other patent leather options are available this season included the 8065 Patent shoe ($110), basically a schoolgirl Mary Jane with a decorative brogue pattern and double straps. Again rockin' those juxtaposing vibes of innocent vs. naughty. Next on the shopping list, for sure.
Another similar pair of boots I then spied and also love were the Persephone Buttaro, available in both Black and Shiraz, as shown below ($160). The Persephone features a gorgeous silhouette with a stacked heel, beautiful stitching and detailing, and a lug sole that makes them both practical and fashion-forward at the same time. The deep, rich burgundy leather is stunning and so rich looking.
While the pricing may seem high, you are paying for both style and craftsmanship, a shoe or boot that is actually both good for your feet and is designed to last for many years. Uppers and sole are not glued together, but sewn and then heat-welded, much like a tire. Most styles are waterproof. This is quality that’s worth paying for in my book.
I think any woman - no matter their age - who gives a pair of Dr. Martens a try will be amazed at how they can “revolutionize” both her wardrobe and her attitude towards dressing. There may be a punk princess lurking somewhere inside that you never knew existed!
Dr. Martens are available in Women's sizes US 5 - 11. See the full collection at www.drmartens.com
Dress by 'A New Day' - Target
Photo credit: Aidan Timko (except last two, Dr. Martens website)
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