Burberry
“DMs” might mean “direct messages” to many-a-Millennial these days, but anyone born pre-nineties knows that it stands for Doc Martens. No longer reserved for the tootsies of workmen and anarchists, the heavy-soled shoes are enjoying a resurgence of almighty proportions.
Once a wardrobe staple for any teen aiming to express a penchant for rebellion, my fling with the Doc started way back in primary school. Floating in limbo somewhere between fashionista and grunger, I gravitated towards the classic 8-eye boot (an alarming shade of violet if I recall correctly) and as I got older expanded my horizons to include low-top and heeled versions. Today I am the proud owner of the Doc’s Shore Clarissa sandals in black patent. They go with just about anything. I’ve even managed to pair them with cashmere socks in winter.
Louis Vuitton
Despite DM’s rich history and its ability to transcend iconic movements, you might be surprised to learn that not long after the brand’s fortieth birthday, sales
declined so dramatically that all but one of its UK factories had to be closed to stave off bankruptcy.
Thankfully in the early naughties the brand enjoyed a new lease of life when high fashion designers saved the company by re-interpreting and customising the classic 1460 boot. Eternally linked to its musical roots, grunge propelled the company back into the mainstream, while on home soil Britpop rebelled against the grunge movement’s sad-kid apathy, but did so wearing the same fail-safe footwear.
Burberry
DMs have since enjoyed a steady climb to the top of the fashion pack, with everyone from Givenchy to Prada sending their own Marten-esque boots clomping down the runway. Trendsetters from to Agyness Deyn to Gwen Stefani have rocked their own, while DM’s recent collaborations truly run the fashion gauntlet, from Comme Des Garçon to Supreme.
Louis Vuitton
Styled down with jeans and a tee, Burberry’s DM-inspired rubber-soled buckle boots provide just the right amount of edge to your daytime look. Or opt for the Louis Vuitton Canyon Desert Boot if you’re looking to make a statement – this season’s platform lace-ups will have you feeling one part lady, three parts Lara Croft in no time. The best thing about this trend is its ability to transition from casual to evening – and who doesn’t love a shoe you can wear all day?
