Clarks Originals Celebrates Six Decades With Wallabee Day On April 26

From Slick Rick to Ghostface Killah to Pharrell Williams and Justin Beiber, the Clarks Originals Wallabee shoe has caught the attention of street kids, style enthusiasts and sneaker fans alike. Known for its timeless footwear designs, Clark's Originals will mark a major milestone with its inaugural Wallabee Day on April 26, 2024.

This inaugural celebration marks not only a celebration of the brand, but also an opportunity to reflect on the remarkable journey of the Wallabee silhouette through six decades of cultural influence. In light of this momentous occasion, an exploration of the Wallabee's extensive celebrity fan base provides a captivating narrative that underscores his enduring legacy in pop culture.

Since its inception in 1968, building on a legacy of shoemakers dating back to 1825, the Wallabee has transcended mere footwear to become a symbol of iconic figures and influential subcultures throughout history. From the movie screen to the music industry to the catwalks, the Wallabee has left an indelible mark, standing at the feet of notable personalities and luminaries in various domains.

Tara McRae, Director of Marketing and Digital, says: “We're delighted to announce the launch of our first ever Wallabee Day. It's such an iconic shoe loved by people all over the world and has served as a blank canvas for artists, creators and cultures for many generations, Wallabee Day allows us to celebrate not only the shoe, but also all the collaborators who help us reinvent history, year after year.

Adding to the alleged Wallabee aura, on April 26, 1971, an amusing incident occurred at New York's John F. Kennedy Airport as customs crews prepared to receive 4,176 Clarks “Wallabees” . Receivers discovered they weren't live animals but the new Wallabee shoe silhouette, prompting a mixture of relief and amusement among airport staff.

In the realm of entertainment, the Wallabee has graced the feet of Hollywood's elite, with notable figures such as Breaking Bad's Walter White and visionary director Wes Anderson among its admirers. Music legends including Raekwon, Drake, Tyler the Creator and Notorious BIG have adopted the Wallabee as a staple in their signature style, making trail statements that illustrated the shoe's coolness and how advertising in a clothing market. In addition, the shoe has caught the attention of beloved athletes such as David Beckham, Raheem Sterling and LeBron James, who have embraced its timeless appeal on and off the field.

The Wallabee's influence extends beyond its wearers to encompass a roster of esteemed collaborators who have given their creative vision to the silhouette over the years. From iconic music groups like the Wu-Tang Clan to acclaimed artists like Jorja Smith and Salehe Bembury, the Wallabee has served as a canvas for artistic expression, resulting in unique and captivating iterations of the classic design. Additionally, collaborations with celebrity-led brands such as OVO, Billionaire Boys Club and GOLF WANG have further elevated Wallabee's status, cementing its place as a cultural icon.

Clarks Originals hosted a screening of the documentary film “Clarks and New York: Soles of the City” on May 6, 2023, highlighting the cultural impact of the iconic Wallabee shoe. The film explores the shoe's influence on urban culture, particularly in New York City's Caribbean and hip hop scene, with contributions from notable figures such as Ghostface Killah, Raekwon and Jadakiss. Directed by Set Free Richardson and produced by Clarks Originals, the documentary delves into the Wallabee's status as a street fashion symbol and its utility in urban environments.

Panel discussions following the screening, featuring key figures such as James Frapwell and Tara McRae of Clark's Originals, highlighted the importance of the shoe in the history of music and fashion. They emphasized the importance of allowing authentic voices to tell the story of the Wallabee's evolution and cultural impact while being the brand leaders in fostering and preserving the culture behind Clark.

The appeal of the Wallabee lies in its timeless design, but also in its ability to transcend generational boundaries and resonate with diverse audiences. As we celebrate the opening day of the Wallabee, it serves as a poignant reminder of the shoe's enduring legacy and its continued relevance in contemporary fashion and culture over six decades.

The Wallabee's illustrious celebrity fan base provides a compelling narrative underscoring its status as a cultural phenomenon leading to a dedicated day. From its humble beginnings to its enduring presence in the worlds of fashion and entertainment, the Wallabee continues to captivate audiences and leave an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.