Some footwear styles never truly disappear — they evolve alongside culture. The Clarks Originals Wallabee is one of them. Originally introduced as a simple moccasin-inspired shoe with a crepe sole, it has once again returned to the forefront — appearing in store windows, street style photos, and everyday wardrobes. This renewed relevance isn’t accidental. The Wallabee’s return can be traced back to three enduring factors: its distinctive silhouette, all-day comfort, and deep cultural roots.

A silhouette that creates its own outfit

At first glance, the Wallabee feels unmistakably different. A squared toe, two-eyelet fastening, a single-piece vamp with hand-stitched construction, and a thick natural crepe sole all contribute to its distinctive form. This combination creates a proportion many shoes lack — positioned somewhere between a sneaker and a classic chukka. It’s refined enough to work with wool trousers, yet relaxed enough to feel natural with denim and a sweater. No branding is required: the silhouette alone is instantly recognisable.

Editor’s note: If you want your trousers to fall cleanly without breaking the line, opt for the Wallabee Low and pair it with wider-leg pants that drape slightly over the shoe. For a more archaic, grounded feel, the Wallabee Boot works especially well — the higher cut anchors the look and adds visual weight to the silhouette.

Comfort without compromise

The Wallabee’s reputation is built on its natural rubber crepe sole. Elastic and responsive, it absorbs minor impact and, most importantly, adapts to the shape of the foot within a few days of wear. Its relatively flat profile allows the foot to rest more naturally than on heavily cushioned athletic soles, making all-day city walking noticeably less tiring.

The upper, crafted from soft suede or smooth leather, gently wraps the foot, while the stitched apron construction helps the shoe retain its shape over time.

Practical point: natural crepe performs best in dry conditions. In rain or snow, it requires a bit of care — wipe off excess moisture, allow the shoes to dry at room temperature, and use a suede brush and protective spray when appropriate.

Culture you can feel on your feet

The Wallabee’s rise to icon status has been shaped by Jamaican style and New York hip-hop culture. From carefully composed rude boy looks to Wu-Tang Clan — including Ghostface Killah’s well-known “Wallabee Kingpin” association — as well as bohemian Soho bars and contemporary designer collections, the shoe has evolved into a kind of cultural shorthand.

Rather than a loud fashion statement, the Wallabee functions as a quiet reference — a signal of personal taste and cultural awareness. That’s why today it feels equally at home against the minimalist architecture of Vilnius and within a more expressive streetwear wardrobe, adding a layer of history and meaning to every combination.

How to wear them now (without any rules, but with taste)

Rather than fixed formulas, think in terms of direction. First, with tailored trousers: choose the Wallabee in smooth leather or dark suede. The contrast softens formal tailoring and gives a suit a more contemporary, relaxed feel. Second, with straight-leg jeans paired with a sweater or a shirt — a familiar combination that works effortlessly from day to evening.

And finally, a subtle nod to the ’90s: an oversized knit, looser trousers, and the Wallabee Boot. The result is a hip-hop–influenced silhouette that feels relevant again — clean, confident, and free from overt nostalgia.

Why choose us?

At ADV Store, we carefully curate Clarks Originals Wallabee colourways and textures — from warm beige tones to rich, deep suedes. We also help with sizing (the Wallabee tends to fit roomier, so trying them on is recommended) and offer guidance on caring for crepe soles and suede, so the shoes age naturally and beautifully over time.

In the end, the Wallabee is defined by character, comfort, and cultural depth. That’s why its return isn’t just a revival — it’s a continuation, one that feels more relevant than ever.