Clarks Originals at 200: Two Centuries of Craft, Culture, and Cool
Two brothers, a small town, and a pair of shoes that changed everything. What began in 1825 in the quiet village of Street, Somerset, has become one of the most enduring stories in fashion. For two centuries, Clarks Originals has been redefining footwear, balancing heritage craftsmanship with innovation, and authenticity with effortless style.
From Sheepskin Slippers to Global Icons
The Clarks story began humbly. Cyrus and James Clark, two brothers with a vision, turned scraps of sheepskin from their Somerset tannery into slippers, a simple yet ingenious act that would set the foundation for nearly 200 years of shoemaking excellence. It was more than a clever idea; it was a philosophy. Reduce waste, refine craft, and reimagine what footwear could be.
To this day, Clarks remains rooted in Somerset. Their headquarters still stand in the shadow of Glastonbury Tor, a symbol of the brand’s deep connection to its community and history. Nearby, the Shoemakers Museum celebrates this legacy, housing over 25,000 shoes that chronicle Clarks’ evolution from local workshop to international fashion name. Every stitch, every sole, every shoe tells a story of craftsmanship, comfort, and creativity.
The Mod Revolution: How Clarks Became a Cultural Icon
While Clarks built its reputation on comfort and quality, it was the launch of the Desert Boot in 1950 that truly changed everything. Designed by Nathan Clark, inspired by military crepe-soled boots he’d seen in Cairo, the Desert Boot was clean, simple, and timelessly cool. Its minimal silhouette spoke volumes, a quiet rebellion against overdesigned footwear.
By the 1960s, it had become a Mod staple, worn by British youth who embraced sharp tailoring, scooters, and soul music. Later, the Wallabee joined the lineup; a moccasin-inspired masterpiece beloved for its unique shape and unparalleled comfort. Together, these silhouettes became symbols of individuality, embraced across continents and generations.
From Kingston’s reggae and dancehall scenes to Britpop stages and modern streetwear, Clarks Originals found a home in subcultures that valued authenticity. Worn by everyone from Bob Dylan to Dizzee Rascal, Oasis to Wu-Tang Clan, the brand transcended trends to become part of the fabric of cultural cool.
200 Years of Originals: Heritage Meets Innovation
As Clarks Originals celebrates 200 years of shoemaking, the brand honours its past while looking to the future. This milestone year introduces a series of limited-edition releases; modern expressions of classic craftsmanship designed to mark two centuries of walking original paths.
Each style reflects the essence of what has made Clarks great: authentic materials, thoughtful details, and timeless silhouettes, reinterpreted with a celebratory twist.
The 200th Anniversary Clarks Originals Collection
Clarks Originals Men’s Harris Tweed Combination Wallabee™ in Green
Crafted in partnership with Harris Tweed, this limited-edition Wallabee blends Clarks’ Somerset roots with Scottish textile heritage. The quarter panels feature genuine Harris Tweed in rich green tones, contrasted by deep purple suede on the vamp and collar. A natural crepe sole with black spray grounds the design, while triple fobs — Clarks Originals, Wallabee™, and 200 Years — mark its anniversary status. Two lace options add versatility, from sleek black to patterned green-and-black
Clarks Originals Women’s Hi Shine Leather Wallabee™ in Purple Grape
Part of the Somerset Nights Pack, this radiant take on the Wallabee celebrates two centuries of craft with a luxurious twist. The high-shine purple grape leather gives the silhouette an elegant, evening-ready feel, while the removable tonal kiltie and vintage tassel laces offer playful sophistication. A natural crepe sole with black spray underlines its iconic shape, finished with anniversary fobs and a heat-embossed Clarks Originals logo.
Clarks Originals Men’s Harris Tweed Combination Wallabee™ Boot in Rust
A bold yet heritage-rich reinvention of the Wallabee Boot, this edition pairs authentic Harris Tweed quarter panels with warm rust suede uppers. Built using Clarks’ traditional cinched moccasin construction, the shoe balances rugged texture with refined detail. With twin lace options and commemorative fobs, it’s a wearable piece of history that bridges past and present in perfect balance.
The Legacy Lives On
From the quiet streets of Somerset to the stages and sidewalks of the world, Clarks Originals has walked through two centuries of style, substance, and cultural evolution. Few brands can claim to have influenced so many movements, from Mods to musicians, from desert explorers to designers.
As Clarks celebrates 200 years, it remains true to what made it great: craftsmanship, authenticity, and the courage to do things differently. Here’s to the next chapter; to those who walk their own path, in shoes that started it all.
Because some icons never fade — they just keep stepping forward.
Shop Clarks Originals full men's collection here.
Shop Clarks Originals full women's collection here.