My Jamaica - Most prefer clarks

Corey Lindner, Gleaner Writer

Would it be correct if someone made the statement that all Jamaican men should have a pair of Clarks shoes? Well, they would be partially correct, considering that it has become a signature boot in our culture today.

Not saying women don't fancy Clarks, but it's by and large paraded by men.

It was given birth to in 1950 and not much later several siblings followed. Clarks travelled across the world and its clean, chic look was warmly welcomed.

This You Ought To Know

Nathan Clark, a grandson of the original founders, took the initiative and launched the Desert Boots in a Chicago shoe fair the same year it was birthed. An Esquire Magazine reporter gave it generous credits and the shoe saw a spike in demand.

In 1965, Lance Clark decided to promote the show in France and from there it became a household name.

This was when it earned worldwide accreditation as a 'boss' shoes. Ever heard the saying, when United States sneezes, Jamaica catches a cold?' It basically means that what happens in the United States of America ultimately affects us here in Jamaica.

Clarks caused a buzz in US stores and soon the shoe brand made its way to the land of wood and water. It has been widely embraced and, in due course, has woven itself into Jamaican fashion culture.

Once the hype was over 'platform' shoes, now it's Clarks: Desert Boots. Even though there are numerous versions of Clarks (Wallabees, Desert Trek, Weaver), the king of them all is the Desert Boots.

Now, thanks to Vybz Kartel's famous song, Clarks has become part of the DNA of Jamaican pop and fashion culture.

What's best to wear with Clarks?

A nice dark jeans and a simple dress shirt with a clean pair of suede Clarks creates a simple and exquisite look on a guy.

- Anya, 17

A fitted T-shirt, a close-fitting pants and a dark, clean, fresh, out-of-the-box-looking Desert Clarks, with a celebrity shades and a fresh haircut. That look gives you swagger.

- Johnson, 21

Well, anything you want to put a Clarks with, it works. Clarks is like a chameleon - it adapts to its environment - and Clarks adapts to that which it is being worn with.

- Gregory, 15

Clarks cannot be worn with any and everything. It looks good with a short pants, a plain shirt and a simple or flamboyant chain.

- Bingham, 16