Naomi Campbell stars in new Timberland campaign

Timberland has unveiled its new global ICONIC campaign, continuing the narrative that pays homage to the iconic The Original Yellow BootÔ which celebrated its 50th Anniversary last year. Since 1973, Timberland’s original boot has been synonymous with timeless, personal style, innovation and an attitude that meets the challenges of everyday life with passion and courage. Now, the brand unveils its campaign featuring four international talents who remind us what it means to be a true original icon: Naomi Campbell, Teddy Swims, Slawn and Kai-Isaiah Jamal.

The ICONIC campaign is an ode to empowerment and self-expression that the four influential talents reflect perfectly. All of them are true icons who have showcased their own original essence in each of their careers.

Naomi Campbell, aptly dubbed ‘the original supermodel’, appears wearing only the original Timberland boot to underline the message of authenticity and originality that powers the campaign. The campaign was shot by photographer Jamie Morgan, who photographed Naomi Campbell as a young up-and-comer in 1984, thus closing an interesting circle in which two British icons come together in this powerful tribute to the Original Yellow Boot.

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In addition to Naomi Campbell, Timberland’s campaign also showcases the talents of three creatives who are breaking new ground in expressing new perspectives and styles where authenticity is paramount.

Singer-songwriter Teddy Swims is featured in a striking image that reflects the same bravery and honesty that his music evokes. ‘If I had to call myself an icon, it would be because of my authenticity. I try to be authentic and vulnerable. I think that’s iconic,’ says Teddy. As for the Original Yellow Boot, Teddy says: ‘It has maintained its consistency as an icon over several generations. It’s a powerful boot that represents a timeless style that is always appropriate, no matter what year it is or what you pair it with.

Jamie Morgan has opted for a monochromatic palette that gives a deliberate nod to timelessness and authenticity, focusing attention solely on the essence of the boot. ‘The word ‘iconic’ is overused these days and is something that can really only be built over time. Timberland boots have earned that status. They have been adopted by many different subcultures over the years and are still at the forefront of fashion style, so yes, they are definitely iconic.’

British-Nigerian designer and artist Olaolu Slawn (also known as Slawn) accentuates the spirit of resilience that defines both the boot and his professional career, which has made this iconoclastic urban artist, known for his passion for street art and abstract expressionism, a figurehead in the contemporary art world. Reflecting on the boot and what it means to him, Slawn says: ‘This boot is classic. Sexy. Very me. I have like six pairs.

The ICONIC campaign is complemented by striking images of Kai-Isaiah Jamal, model, poet and non-binary trans visibility activist, described as an icon of her generation. A pioneer in her field, Kai seeks to elevate voices away from the mainstream to celebrate their most authentic selves. Kai embodies the legacy of The Original Yellow Boot and says: ‘Iconic to me is things that have a legacy, a history and leave a cultural imprint. Ultimately, the story behind Timberland and the way it has been adapted by various subcultures is what makes it iconic’.

Following the 50th Anniversary and after a year of major collaborations in the fashion world with partnerships with the likes of Louis Vuitton, Wales Bonner and White Mountaineering, the ICONIC campaign brings its heritage back into focus.

The iconic boot’s distinctive wheat colour, unrivalled craftsmanship and durable, long-lasting comfort have cemented its status as the world’s most recognisable boot. A testament to authenticity and the power that youth culture has over brands. The ICONIC campaign, celebrating the legacy of The Original Yellow Boot will come to life on the streets, social media and at events in iconic destinations around the world.