Lucky fans of Clarks Originals got the chance to handcraft their own unique Wallabees at the Clarks Creates workshop during Art Basel in Miami last Friday.
The heritage footwear brand and its manufacturing partner Vibram linked up with interdisciplinary designers Vandy the Pink, Jacopo De Carli and Shaun Crawford to make the immersive experience special. The talented trio hand-picked an assortment of fabrics, patches, paints and other materials for guests to customize their shoes.
Clarks’ chief marketing and digital officer Tara McRae shared a bit of the inspiration behind the event. “We have done a few projects this past year where amazing creative partners have taken our shoes and done some custom work on them that has been insanely well received by the consumer,” McRae told FN.
“It got us thinking about how we could do more of this, which led to us developing a new banner program for customs called ‘Clarks Creates.'” She added that launching the program during Art Basel, “when some of the greatest artists and creators come together every December,” felt only natural.
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McRae also expressed how important it was for the brand to use entirely deadstock materials in the workshop. “At Clarks, we strive to be as sustainable, conscientious and responsible as possible. This activation program for our stores and retail partners is just another exciting step in our journey to be a more circular business that we hope will also excite the consumer,” she said.
Over the years, Clarks has become known for its many collaborations. The brand has teamed up with everyone from Ronnie Fieg and Salehe Bembury to Liam Gallagher and Supreme. Moreover, Clarks Originals will celebrate its 200th anniversary in 2025.
