My partner’s favourite brand is Clarks; my favourite? Damson Madder. Simply put, today is one hell of a day for us.
Scandi-inspired cool-girl brand Damson Madder has always drawn my attention, due in part to my love of layering and whimsy. Meanwhile, my partner’s love of Clarks Wallabees has, at this time, been well-chronicled in my work.
I have to credit him for persuading me to see that Clarks has come far from my lingering, long-held memories of school shoe shopping: it’s become a hallmark all of its own.
For Damson Madder’s first foray into menswear, they’ve been allowed access to something pretty major: the Clarks archive. Riffing on the most recognisable silhouettes in the brand’s output, the collaborative capsule collection is comprised of two styles: the Wallabee and the mule. Here’s everything you need to know.
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Damson Madder x Clarks Lace-up Wallabees
First up, the Wallabee. A shoe that I spend far too much time discussing in my home life, and that my partner comfortably owns upward of five pairs of. Well, now it’s my turn to dip my toe into the trend. Revamped by Damson Madder in a striking pillbox red, the Wallabee is given a touch of DM’s signature playfulness via its bespoke hiking-inspired lacing on the upper. Keen-eyed shoppers may also have noticed that the heel of the shoe is detailed with a ‘Damson Girl’ motif, inspired by the original Clarks ‘Trekman’ icon from the ‘70s-era designs.
As for my experience wearing the shoe? They’re every bit as adorable in real life. My only styling concern was the colour, but I often wear ballet pumps in bright red, so what’s the difference besides being a little more autumn-appropriate? They fasten easily, feel comfortable, and look the part. Win-win.
Damson Madder x Clarks Mary-Jane mules
The second and final element of the capsule is these custom Mary Jane/mule hybrids. With an open mule-style back, this pair takes its inspiration from the Clarks ‘Nomad’, updated with its richly autumnal ‘chocolate plum’ colourway, bespoke double strap and ‘D’ and ‘M’ branded silver buckles.
As for wearing them? I think this pair might be my favourite. The style, the colour, the slip-on design; it’s all just so wearable. The shoes, like the Wallabees fit very true to size and are unsurprisingly super comfortable.
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