Legendary British footwear brand Dr. Martens has arrived in Manchester, with the opening of its newest store in the centre of Market Street.
The brand celebrated the anticipated opening with an in-store launch party on Wednesday (1 August), attended by Manchester’s style setters, industry players, media (including me who you can play Where’s Wally with in the picture above) and local music figures including Elbow’s Guy Garvey, Pete Jobson from I Am Kloot, The Whip, Kid British, The MINX and The Pins. Partygoers were treated to a performance by Deadbeat Echoes and a set by XFM presenter and DJ Clint Boon, with drinks supplied by the Hornbeam Brewery.
Ardwick-born artist Mark Kennedy, known for his iconic Manchester artwork such as the famous Afflecks Palace mosaic, unveiled his new piece for the store. Featuring the likes of Karl Marx, David Lloyd-George, Morrissey, George Best and Agyness Deyn, the piece celebrates iconic local figures from history to modern day – all shaped in a pair of classic Dr. Martens boots (even the soles are a reference to Joy Divisions Guilty Pleasures).
From its humble origins as the footwear of workers the Dr. Martens boot soon became a rebellious statement of self-expression. Adopted as uniform by various tribes throughout modern history– from mods and rockers, skinheads and punks to Goth and grunge-lovers – each pair is a story of originality, individuality and quality. The boots have now been rediscovered by young fashion-forward consumers and it’s safe to say Dr. Martens can confirm its place as one of the world’s most iconic footwear brands.
Dr. Martens is the perfect addition to a city known for its leading street style, industrial roots, celebration of creativity and incredible musical heritage. With local-born style icon Agyness Deyn launching her own capsule collection, including clothing, footwear and accessories, for the brand in the same month (15 August), the opening of the new store is perfectly placed and perfectly timed.
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