NIGO may have left its mark on Clarks Wallabees

During the latest Human Made event in Hong Kong, the designer was spotted with the limited edition silhouette on his feet.

The connection between NIGO and footwear has always been a fascinating chapter in the contemporary design narrative. And with this potential merger between the imaginaries of Human Made and Clarks, the founder of BAPE would go a step further in realising his creative aspirations, putting his own stamp on an iconic silhouette: the Wallabee.

Since his early days in the industry, the Japanese has shown a deep admiration for Clarks. In the 1990s, he adopted Desert Boots and Wallabees as part of his style, inspired by Hiroshi Fujiwara, and in 1997 he designed the Manhunt for BAPE, paying homage to the footwear brand through highly recognisable details such as the ridged sole.

Now, NIGO seems to be coming full circle. During a recent event in Hong Kong, he was spotted sporting a suspiciously familiar shoe. Beige in colour, suede and emblazoned with Human Made branding, the model is reminiscent of classic Wallabees but with a twist: the unmistakable ridged sole of the Manhunt.

Although neither party has officially confirmed this collaboration, there is every indication that further news and a long-awaited launch could be coming soon.