Dr. Martens Spring/Summer 2013
Throughout Dr. Martens’ history, the brand has been adopted and subverted by countless subcultures and tribes – from punks to mods, skin-heads to stylers. Extending the #FIRSTANDFOREVER campaign sentiment from the autumn/winter 2012 season, the new spring/summer 2013 campaign continues with Dr. Martens’ connection to the ‘tribes’.
Tribes are not just premised solely on style, but also by substance. A shared attitude, a spirit, an instinct. For many, their first pair of Dr. Martens is both a statement of self expression and a stamp of belonging. An individual style, connected by a united spirit.
These are all qualities that the FashionBeans reader will appreciate. We are bound by a love of all things sartorial but strive to stamp our own individuality on every outfit we create.
With this in mind, today we bring you the Dr. Martens spring/summer 2013 campaign and pick out the key pieces from the new collection.
Dr. Martens: SS13 FIRSTANDFOREVER Campaign
The SS13 campaign was shot by Gavin Watson and features the return of the inimitable Ash Stymest, along with his motley crew of Adwoa Aboah, Todd Taylor and new-comer Susannah Liguori.
We follow the gang of friends in the build up to a night out together on the streets of Manchester – signalling a return to Dr. Martens’ rebellious roots:
Dr. Martens SS13 FIRSTANDFOREVER Video
The campaign imagery is accompanied by an arresting film, encapsulating the spirit of self-expression at the heart of the brand. It is directed by Fred & Nick from ‘Pulse Films’ – known for their work on music videos for the likes of Laura Marling and Mumford & Sons, as well as documentaries and commercials: The campaign is also brought to life in the digital space and on the brand’s social media channels, where consumers are encouraged to share their style in order to win Dr. Martens footwear. An immersive and extremely visual place to explore the collection, it shows how Dr. Martens’ consumers put their individual stamp on the pieces in the real world.
Dr. Martens Footwear: SS13
Tattoo Collection
The new Dr. Martens ‘Tattoo’ collection sees the return of the iconic 1460 boot and 1461 shoe but with noticeable differences. Retro inspired tattoo designs, such as skulls, anchors and ships, have been imprinted onto the shoes in bright, bold colours that will ensure the wearer effortlessly stands out from the crowd this season. This is a unique collection that directly reflects decades of personal customisation by Dr. Martens’ consumers.
Our pick from the range is the Dr. Martens ‘Marcell Shoe’, a 3-eyelet silhouette that features a tattoo exclusively designed in-house across its beautiful white leather upper.
Additional features include Goodyear-welted construction and the classic Dr. Martens air-cushioned sole. This is a shoe that is built to last and designed to make a statement:
Crafted Made In England Collection
The Dr. Martens ‘Crafted’ collection has long prided itself on utilising the highest quality construction techniques and finest materials. For SS13, the brand has teamed up with two of the finest cloth and silk manufacturers in the UK – emphasising Dr. Martens’ ongoing commitment to British heritage and local manufacturing.
Highlights from the new collection include the ‘3-Eye Percy Shoe’ and the ‘Munroe Low Boot’, both of which feature silk wrapped patterned uppers in navy/cherry red stripes and cherry red spots respectively. The silk is provided by the esteemed Stephen Walters and Sons, who have been in the trade since 1720 – making them one of the oldest silk mills in the whole of Europe.
These are two truly stunning and undeniably unique designs that tap in to the current print trend whilst remaining utterly timeless within their appearance:
The same exquisite level of craftsmanship is also found on the superfine merino ‘3-Eye Percy Shoe’ and ‘6-Eye Low Boot’. This time, the uppers have been constructed from superfine merino wool, provided by Martin Sons & Co of Huddersfield, who are world-renowned for their English woollens and silk twists, dating back to 1840.
These two models will add texture and a classic British edge to any look you integrate them into this season. Try pairing with other heritage pieces such as earth colours, waxed jackets and tweed/corduroy, weather permitting:
Kensington Collection
The Dr. Martens ‘Kensington’ collection has an altogether more youthful and contemporary feel, which is emphasised by the lightweight materials, modern hues and slim-line silhouettes. For SS13, the updates have been kept simple, with the introduction of hi-suede WP colour ways and navy/off-white outsoles.
Our favourites from the range come in the form of the blue ‘Henley Shoe’ and ‘Kenyon Boot’. Constructed from beautiful medium nap suede, they are lightweight and therefore perfect for the warmer months. The blue colouring is on point for SS13, with blue being THE major colour trend for men, whilst the contrast white outsoles give them a modern feel and really allow the upper to pop.
However, perhaps the most desirable quality of both styles stems from their versatility. The whole ‘Kensington’ collection can be dressed up or down effortlessly, allowing you to go from day to night instantly.
The ‘Henley’ and ‘Kenyon’ are also available in perforated suede for those looking for a high summer or holiday shoe that will take you from beach to bar, and back:
Windsor Collection
Perhaps our favourite range of them all, the Dr. Martens ‘Windsor’ collection takes iconic silhouettes and brings them
Due to the muted nature of the camo print, it is perfect for style-conscious men who want to nod subtly at the current major menswear influences, without being a slave to them. Combined with the tonal cream outsole and leather welt, this is a shoe that will have you standing out from the crowd and receiving appreciative nods of respect by those in the ‘know’, yet is still refined and understated enough that it will work with almost anything in your current wardrobe:
For those that prefer their footwear slightly more restrained, look no further than the ‘Carrington Brogue’. Presented in a fresh and seasonally appropriate combination of beige kaya nubuck and marl fabric, this is a lightweight and versatile shoe that can be dressed up or down effortlessly.
Pair with unstructured cotton/linen tailoring for smart-casual events and dress down with a pair of slim chinos and a polo at the weekends:
Dr. Martens Clothing: SS13
British subculture has once again influenced the new Dr. Martens menswear collection, with the brand taking reference from the acid brights and tie-dyes adopted by the late 1980s rave scene.
Not only are the neon hues and retro patterns both on trend for SS13, they make excellent statement pieces and need minimal consideration as to how to wear. Simply throw on one of Dr. Martens’ range of t-shirts/shirts and pair with your trusty black skinny jeans and your favourite pair of ‘Docs’, to let your top half do all the talking:
When it comes to patterns, Dr. Martens has you covered. Whether you prefer classic heritage and Mod inspired checks or something more fashion-forward, such as the leopard print button-down shirt, the range of shirting on offer is wide and varied. Available in both long and short sleeved options, you are bound to find those essential wardrobe staples that will upgrade any look instantly:
Key Piece: College Bomber Jacket
However, the stand out piece from the entire clothing collection has to be the ‘College Bomber Jacket’. The bomber is THE outerwear silhouette for spring/summer 2013, and this classic version ticks all the right boxes.
Made from a water-resistant, shell-waxed canvas supplied by the British Millerain Co. Ltd, it is available in timeless black and features a contrasting oxblood cotton lining.
This is a jacket that oozes quality and will get use all year round, helping add a much needed edge to any casual ensemble:
Dr. Martens Accessories: SS13
Finally, we reach the new spring/summer 2013 accessories collection. Dr. Martens have long been associated with producing high quality leather bags that look as good – and are as sturdy – as their iconic selection of footwear.
This season is no different, with the brand releasing some beautiful black and oxblood leather versions of their signature satchels, as well as an essential holdall, a work appropriate briefcase and a selection of on trend totes and backpacks:
Other highlights from the range of accessories on offer are the striped braces, available in black/yellow or oxblood/cream stripes, which are perfect for those wanting to achieve a traditional Mod/Punk-inspired aesthetic.
Simply team with your dark skinny jeans, chunky boots and a plain tee for edgy, effortless style:
Final Word
The new Dr. Martens spring/summer 2013 collection is as distinct as the many subcultures that have embraced the brand throughout the generations.
The underlying ‘tribe’ influences have helped to create a wide and varied range to choose from, ensuring that you will find those pieces that define YOU: your personality, attitude and spirit.
You can shop the full collection now over at Dr. Martens official online store.