Much of Dr. Martens’ popularity can be attributed to the grunge era of the ’90s when plaid and alternative music reigned supreme. It was a time when creativity was unrestrained, and a shared sense of nonconformity characterized the alternative nation of the decade.
Bella Hadid elevates her street style in New York City on February 9, 2018, pairing oversized Vivienne Westwood tailoring with edgy Dr. Martens Holly Lolita platform oxfords, Christianahjones orange sunglasses, and a playful Prada comic-print bag (Credit: INSTARimages)
Even individuals from fashion-forward families found their voice through Dr. Martens. Julia Restoin Roitfeld, daughter of the iconic Carine Roitfeld, once reflected, “I had no boundaries at home, so I had nothing to push against. I only rebelled with clothing when I was 14. I would wear purple Doc Martens and had purple streaks in my hair, dirty jeans, and baggy tops. Very Britpop. Anything that wasn’t girly or feminine. My mother hated it.”
This candid memory underscores how Dr. Martens became a vehicle for rebellion, individuality, and a bold rejection of traditional norms, appealing to those forging their own path. It dismantled the notions of what fashion was and should be when it came with the breeze in 1960 through the legendary “1460” boots.
Dr. Martens “1460” Boots in Black Smooth Union Jack, $120
Designed for comfort and functionality, these boots were made for working. Pete Townshend, the frontman of the iconic rock band The Who, took the lead and represented the working class by wearing the ‘1460’ boots.
Completely raw, versatile, and uncontrived, these boots appealed to musicians, freethinkers, and rebels with a cause. Soon, the youth picked up on the trend, and the boots became a universal fashion staple that started a cultural revolution.
Celebrities Rocking Dr. Martens 1460 Boots
Dr. Martens 1460 boots are a timeless fashion statement embraced by celebrities who know how to style them with flair. Here’s a roundup of iconic looks and how you can recreate them:
1. Irina Shayk’s Bold Pink Ensemble
2. Irina Shayk’s ’90s-Inspired Streetwear
- Look: A nod to the ’90s, Irina paired baggy crucifix-patched pants, a white crop top, and black Dr. Martens 1460 boots for a relaxed yet stylish street look.
- Style Tip: Lean into retro vibes with oversized or baggy elements paired with these iconic boots.
- Read More: Irina Shayk Embraces ’90s Aesthetics with Dr. Martens
3. Emma Watson’s Airport Chic
- Look: Emma Watson paired a white shirt, green-and-black checkered miniskirt, and black leather lace-up Dr. Martens 1460 boots, adding edge to her travel outfit.
- Style Tip: Contrast feminine pieces with bold boots for a balanced, chic ensemble.
- Read More: Emma Watson’s Effortless Travel Style with Dr. Martens
4. Madison Beer’s Casual Ensemble
- Look: Madison Beer rocked a lacy black top, ivory denim jacket, high-waisted tan pants, and black Dr. Martens 1460 boots for a casual yet edgy vibe.
- Style Tip: Pair neutrals with edgy footwear for an easygoing, fashionable look.
- Read More: Madison Beer’s Laid-Back Style with Dr. Martens
5. Keira Knightley’s Tomboy Chic
- Look: Keira Knightley combined a heavy-duty Acne Studios leather jacket, loose-fitting jeans, and black Dr. Martens 1460 boots for a tomboy-chic outfit.
- Style Tip: Layer structured outerwear with casual pieces to channel effortlessly cool vibes.
- Read More: Keira Knightley’s Edgy Street Style with Dr. Martens
Daisy Lowe effortlessly styles a bold yet casual look near her London home, pairing a black-and-white striped shirt with an orange vest and light-wash skinny jeans, finishing the outfit with classic Dr. Martens boots and oversized aviator sunglasses—a perfect blend of edgy and chic for a summer day on July 4, 2016 (Credit: WENN)
Explore More Celebrity Dr. Martens Styles
Dr. Martens boots have long been a staple in celebrity fashion, seamlessly blending edgy aesthetics with versatile style. For instance, Elle Fanning was spotted pairing her Dr. Martens x Agyness Deyn shoes with a denim ensemble, showcasing a chic yet casual look.
Similarly, Kendall Jenner opted for Dr. Martens ‘Sinclair’ boots during a New York outing, highlighting the brand’s appeal in urban street style. Even on her wedding day, Hayley Williams chose to wear black Doc Martens boots, adding a rebellious twist to her bridal attire.
Daisy Lowe steps out in classic black Dr. Martens 1460 boots, pairing them effortlessly with white skinny jeans for a chic, casual look (Credit: WENN)
Dr. Martens: A Legacy of Rebellion and Self-Expression
Much of its popularity can be attributed to the grunge era of the ’90s, when plaid and alternative music reigned supreme. It was a time when creativity was unrestrained, and a shared sense of nonconformity characterized the alternative nation of the ’90s.
Dr. Martens has become a symbol of rebellion. The black and cherry red leather lace-up boots with yellow stitching have become icons of many subcultures that celebrate individuality and advocate self-expression.
Dr. Martens “1460” Boots in Cherry Red Smooth, $120
Dr. Martens encourages individuals to stand out and stand up for something that matters. It has created a new campaign that celebrates individuality and continues its mission to promote rebellious self-expression.
The #STANDFORSOMETHING tour, released as the brand’s fall 2013 campaign, underscored Dr. Martens’ deep connection with music. It featured five shows in five cities across the United Kingdom, spotlighting some of the most celebrated bands of the time.
Dr. Martens maintains its classic and deceptively simple design despite the changing times. The brand continues to evolve, but its advocacy remains the same. Dr. Martens has made it into the history books for starting a cultural revolution, and it continues to be a symbol of individuality and creative expression.
Explore More About Dr. Martens
For readers captivated by the enduring legacy of Dr. Martens, especially the iconic 1460 boots, there’s plenty more to discover on Your Next Shoes. Dive into our detailed guide on the most popular Dr. Martens styles, where we showcase how these boots have become wardrobe staples over the decades.
If you’re curious about statement-making designs, don’t miss our feature on the vibrant Acid Pink 1460s, complete with styling tips to elevate your look. And for those concerned about authenticity, our comprehensive guide to spotting fake Dr. Martens provides essential tips to ensure you’re investing in genuine footwear.
Whether you’re looking to expand your collection or dive deeper into the cultural impact of these iconic boots, these articles are the perfect next step.
