A-COLD-WALL* and Dr. Martens were on to a good thing when they announced their collaboration in 2020, which saw ACW* release an “architectural reinterpretation” of the iconic 1461 shoe. Luckily for us, all good things don’t have to come to an end, apparently. For SS22, the two brands are linking up again to release another collaborative capsule – a different 1461 shoe, as well as the classic 1460 boot. .
ACW*’s creative director Samuel Ross has been implementing his utilitarian design philosophy throughout these collaborative releases, constructing footwear that confronts the mainstream and refuses to assimilate. Injecting his personal, forensic and architectural approach to designing for this project, two of Dr. Martens’ most iconic silhouettes have been reimagined and reinterpreted to reflect a futuristic yet ultimately timeless design.
This latest collaboration stands on the new double-height Bex Neoteric sole, which is described as “a takedown of the Quad Neoteric platform launched last year”. The sole boasts a lightweight, two-part construction, with deep cleating and an exaggerated side profile. Centring deconstructed detailing, this new sole recalls the Brutalist architecture to which A-COLD-WALL* often nods.
Classic ACW* x Dr. Martens design codes remain unchanged, like its pointed, angular features seen in previous collaborations, and the fact that both shoes are crafted using black leather. However, for this project, reflective panels with A-COLD-WALL* branding have been added, grounding the collaboration in a utilitarian space. Both silhouettes are finished with Dr. Martens’ signature yellow stitching and heel loop.
With this collaboration, both Ross and the Dr. Martens team seem to have found their niche, and are ready to expand on it: presenting a confident and considered design which amplifies both brands’ quintessential DNA. The collection drops on the 3rd March on ACW* ‘s website.
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See also: A-COLD-WALL*’S NEW ‘CONCRETE’ COLOURWAY UPDATES CLASSIC BEATS
See also: UNITED BY SUBCULTURAL HERITAGE: DR. MARTENS X A-COLD-WALL*
