DR. MARTENS X THE CLASH: ICONIC FOOTWEAR AND ICONIC PUNK BAND PARTNER ON MADE IN ENGLAND COLLECTION

by John Russel Jones

During The Clash’s seven years of recording and touring, they burned bright and recorded five albums that changed the face of rock’n’roll. They were known for their exciting music, unforgettable performances, and sharp individual style and at the crucial moments of their extraordinary history, they each stood in a trusty pair of Docs.

Now two icons of the UK music scene are officially together again. Presented in two parts and two designs for maximum inclusivity, this Made In England collection is built using the same handcraft and techniques, as well as from the same factory as the pairs The Clash first strapped on over 40 years ago. The timeless 1460 8-eye boot ($290) and 1461 3-eye shoe ($250) are constructed from Smooth, DM’s legacy leather inspired by the original leather used on the first Dr. Martens produced. The heels are marked with The Clash’s instantly recognizable logo. Each pair comes equipped with a set of dog tags based on those worn by the band and seven sets of laces inspired by the colors of their most iconic albums. The collab is available exclusively at DrMartens.com and Dover Street Market and drops tomorrow.

Also available from DM’s main line are the 1460 boot ($180) and 1461 shoe ($140) constructed from Arcadia, a high-shine leather with a base dye and contrast top-coat. Over time the top coat rubs off to reveal the underlying color. The 1460 boot has a military green base and the 1461 shoe a cherry red, chosen by the band from the colors of their album “Sandinista!” and The Clash artwork. Each pair is embossed with The Clash logo on the heel and comes equipped with dog tags.

To celebrate the Dr. Martens x Clash collection, legendary film director, DJ, and musician Don Letts has collated a playlist of songs to tell the story of the iconic band from his perspective as their long-time friend and collaborator. ‘The Story of The Clash in 100 Tracks’ is a mix of cuts from the band’s albums and solo careers, as well as music that inspired them and artists inspired by them. The playlist (see QR code, below) will drop on Spotify and through DM’s channels.

“A continuous clash of sounds provided the blueprint for my selection. I’ve often wondered what it is about The Clash that still resonates with so many. I think it’s something to do with the fact that they were a product of the vinyl generation, raised on music that could be a tool for social and personal change. They understood and believed in the power of music to actually make a difference. They also understood it was all for nothing if you didn’t have a groove and looked like shit. In the 21st century, these ingredients remain a crucial currency for the young,” says Letts.  “As for their musical legacy in the new millennium? Well, I’ll leave that one to you, my friend.”