In the realm of avantgarde couture, Rick Owens as the undisputed lord of darkness, weaving eerie aesthetics and boundary-breaking design techniques into the fabric of his creations. His ongoing collaboration with iconic footwear brand Dr. Martens, initiated in 2021, has been nothing short of a phenomenon, consistently sending fans into a frenzy with each new release.
The partnership's latest venture, the 14XX range, is a testament to the duo's relentless pursuit of experimentation. Launched in 2022, the previous collaboration introduced calf-length brutalist-goth boots characterized by Owens' distinctive wide laces. Now, in 2024, they are back to redefine the ultra-modern 14XX range, infusing classic designs with a futuristic twist.
The 1460, 1461, and 2976 boots undergo a radical transformation under the watchful eye of Rick Owens. The all-new 14XX incubator serves as a breeding ground for innovation, blending bold leather uppers with squared tongues and the formidable DMXL soles. The standout creation in this collection is the 1460 DMXL Megalace boot, a masterpiece boasting black Lunar leather and oversized accents.
Owens' design prowess is evident in the Megalace boot, where crossed and layered laces take center stage, forming a mesmerizing pearl megalace pattern secured to silver rings for a welded appearance. The profile zippers offer both functionality and style, providing easy access to the avant-garde footwear. The boots are elevated further by Dr. Martens' classic yellow stitching, standing proudly atop structured rubber soles adorned with geometric pods.
The collaboration between Rick Owens and Dr. Martens is not merely a fusion of fashion sensibilities; it's a celebration of subcultural roots. The 14XX incubator, unveiled late last year, takes the essence of classic designs and injects them with a potent dose of modernity. The 1460 DMXL Megalace boot embodies this philosophy, where the chunky DMXL sole unit, introduced in 2023, meets Owens' unmistakable aesthetic.
In a statement, Rick Owens articulates the inspiration behind the collaboration, expressing his admiration for the raw and ferocious self-invented abandon symbolized by figures like London-based producer and DJ Sissy Misfit. The designer sees Dr. Martens as a representation of inspirational subculture, and he takes pride in honoring that tradition through his innovative designs.
The Rick Owens x Dr. Martens 1460 DMXL Megalace boot is set to hit the shelves on February 8, available through Dr. Martens, Rick Owens, and select retailers. This collaboration not only showcases the creative synergy between the two influential entities but also provides a glimpse into the progressive approach of Dr. Martens' 14XX design incubator.
Dr. Martens' commitment to pushing boundaries extends beyond this collaboration. The brand's 14XX initiative, four years in the making, represents a new design chapter characterized by boundary-pushing, forward-thinking workwear. According to Darren McKoy, Dr. Martens' creative director, 14XX marks a significant departure from the norm, embracing a vision that challenges conventional design norms.
As fashion enthusiasts eagerly await the February 8 release, it's evident that the Rick Owens x Dr. Martens collaboration is not just about boots; it's a fusion of dark elegance, subcultural homage, and avant-garde design that continues to captivate and inspire. This collaboration sets the tone for what promises to be an exciting era in the world of boundary-pushing fashion, with Dr. Martens leading the charge into uncharted territories.
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Words by AW.
Photo courtesy of Dr. Martens.