NATIONAL: Subversive UK boot brand Dr Martens has included budding designers across Australia and New Zealand in a global contest to design a new boot style.
The decision to include Australasia in the 2008 competition – dubbed 'The Brief' - followed its successful roll out overseas last year, a Dr Martens spokesperson said.
"From a brand established on the foundations of self-expression and customisation, the competition will allow all aspiring creatives to splash their style over a boot that will forever become a part of the brand’s rich history."
'Brief' contestants could create a design for the next boot on either the Original 1460 (8-eye) or 1914 (14-eye) styles. The contest would have two winners – one voted for online by the public and another chosen by an industry panel made up of creative industry leaders.
Both winning designs would be sold as limited edition product in the UK Dr Martens concept store as well as selected stores globally, the spokesperson said.
"Dr Martens has always been deeply rooted in subculture as a brand that encourages self-expression, creativity and is made unique by those who wear them. The Brief celebrates this resonant legacy."
For more detail on 'The Brief', potential entrants should visit drmartens.com/bootdesign. The competition closes on July 31, with winners to be announced in early August.