The 1461 was first created on the 1st April, 1961 – for AW17 Dr. Martens and Lazy Oaf have covered the upper with flocked hearts, a twist on polka dot prints. Velvet laces, a dual-branded sockliner and Lazy Oaf's -Don't Care' slogan printed to the back strap heel are perfect to appeal to the the young-at-heart. The style is, of course, completed with DM's famed durable Goodyear welted construction and tough PVC sole. Air-cushioning provides a tough and comfortable wear whilst retaining the instantly recognisable yellow welt stitch.
The first pair of Dr. Martens boots rolled off the production line on the 1st April 1960. With its trademark yellow stitch, grooved sole and heel-loop, it was a boot for workers, initially worn by postmen and policemen; comfortable, durable and lightweight in comparison to its competitors at the time.
Throughout Dr. Martens history, the brand has been adopted and subverted by diverse individuals, musicians, youth cultures and tribes. These are the people who stand out from the crowd and their journey of self-expression has always been accompanied by a pair of DM's.
The simple silhouette allows people to customise each pair; whilst on a utilitarian level their famous durability and comfort make them ideal footwear for the world of gigs and street fashion. On an emotional level, they are a fl ag of attitude and empowerment.
The Northamptonshire factory where it all began still exists to this day, in the village of Wollaston. A specific range of -Made In England' products are manufactured here by a small, close-knit team of people schooled in traditional shoe-making and the unique process that makes Dr. Martens like no other shoe on earth.
Founded in 2001 by illustrator and designer Gemma Shiel, Lazy Oaf is an independent British streetwear label who focus on driving irreverence into everything it does – creating pieces that play on a surreal, warped sense of humour. An attitude of poking fun and not taking anything too seriously is carried through the whole design ethos, continually inspired by youth nostalgia, teenage rebellion and a sense of apathy towards conforming to the norm.
The style is available from today, online at www.peppermayo.com or in-store and online at Violent Green in Brisbane, retailing at $249.
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