In a remarkable celebration of heritage and culture, the iconic footwear brand Clarks marks its 200th anniversary with a compelling new documentary narrated by Yasiin Bey. This film, directed by Creative Director Martine Rose, chronicles the evolution of Clarks from its modest beginnings in a workshop in Street, Somerset, to its status as a global footwear phenomenon.
The documentary begins by tracing the origins of Clarks, founded by brothers Cyrus and James Clark, who initially crafted slippers from sheepskin cut-offs in 1825. It highlights the brand’s significant milestones, including the introduction of the Desert Boot designed by Nathan Clark in 1950. As the film unfolds, it delves into Clarks’ cultural relevance, showcasing how the brand has influenced and been embraced by various music genres and fashion scenes around the world.
A standout feature of Clarks’ legacy is the Wallabee, which debuted in 1967. This shoe quickly became a staple in the Jamaican ska and reggae scene during the 1970s and later found its way into the U.S. hip-hop scene in the 1980s. The documentary captures testimonies from notable figures in music and fashion, discussing the profound cultural impact of Clarks and its inseparable connection to their identities.
Tim Crumplin, the archivist at the Shoemakers Museum, provides insight into Clarks’ unique history, noting that in 1825, Somerset was relatively isolated, fostering a sense of self-sufficiency that propelled the Clark family to innovate. This innovative spirit has allowed Clarks to maintain its relevance across generations.
British music icon Liam Gallagher reflects on his personal connection to the brand in the documentary, stating, “My earliest memories of Clarks is probably when I’ve gone to school… because everyone was wearing them, they were all the rage back then… I wore Clarks all the way through the ‘90s, got lots of memories… I don’t think there is any other brand for me, really… Clarks have never let me down.” Gallagher’s sentiment encapsulates the brand’s nostalgic significance in the lives of many.
Martine Rose, a British-Jamaican designer and the creative force behind Clarks, also emphasizes the brand’s foundational role in childhood memories: “Whenever your child gets their first pair of shoes, Clarks is the first place that you go, so that you know their width, so that you know their depth, so that you know the size of their little feet.” This statement highlights Clarks’ longstanding commitment to quality and comfort.
The documentary features over 20 influential figures from music, fashion, and even members of the Clarks family, all reflecting on the brand’s rich 200-year history while envisioning its future. As Clarks continues to evolve, the documentary serves as a tribute to its legacy, cultural significance, and impact on global fashion and music.
As the celebration of Clarks’ bicentennial unfolds, it not only honors the past but also sets the stage for the brand’s continued influence in the years to come. Fans and newcomers alike are invited to explore the deep-rooted connection between Clarks and the diverse communities that have embraced its footwear through the decades.
