CLARKS FALL 2012 Footwear-Men's -Women's

Joli Ruffle summer sandals by Clarks-available now ($94.99)

Midtown, NYC

words/images Judith Ecochard

CLARKS nicely bridges the gap between fashion/function---judging by the selections on display at the recent media preview for Fall 2012.

Desert Trooper Boot

Desert Boot-in brown/red

With its classic styles -Originals-still selling BIG-the upcoming season delivers new color waves and interpretations---

---on the signature plantation crepe sole lace-up Wallabees-inspired by a moccasin, and Desert boots inspired by the Brits' army kickers.

PLUS very urban friendly shoes---proving Clarks has grown by leaps and bounds, design wise---while maintaining its value proposition of materials and craftsmanship. And from what we hear, legendary retail service.

Highlights:

THE ORIGINALS

Soho Houston -women's

Othello Sonnet

Weaver Bird-

Desert Trek

Suomi Guide-in oiled leather

Handsome additions to the Clarks owned Bostonian as well as its own offerings---men will appreciate the value of these well made shoes---that make dress for work...at least from the ankle down...easy.

Clarks' Indigo collection for gals is fashionable and stylish---and bonus points-with cushioning footbeds and durable outsoles.

Loyal Soul pump-with cushioning footbed

rugged outsole---in a dressy shoe is subtle and practical.

Loyal Soul

Society Gown-in black suede

Kilty platform loafer---dress/trouser friendly

Burns Easy

Freeform Lace-up

Pursuit Life-nice-grey with a coral pop of color

Wave Cliff in tan leather-hiker chic

ACTIVE WEEKEND for women-OUT and ABOUT for men's-is a sporty take on casual shoes that work for do it in a day chive endeavors.

Rhombus Euro

Pacer GTX

Ruckus Maker combines popular mix of tough canvas and leather-with rubber outsole with toe guard

Arctic Snow

Arctic Adventure boot (far right), Wave Trek (front) lifestyle sneaker

Men's boots really are handsome---and Clarks manages to get the fusion of work/hike/equestrian influences just right-not overdone, just practical and handsome-with all the comfort features that guys buy the brand for---and value priced.

Norse Chelsea (right) Burns Fast (middle)

Ruckus Fracus-nucbuc leather and water resistant canvas upper

With a bit of heel height, women's looks are equally as contemporary and comfortable.

Heath Harrier-far left and Heath Wren middle right, Heath Woodlark -right

Alpine Bonnet

Heath Skylark

Majorca Sun---lug sole and lined---

faux fur---Majorca Sun =warm

Medway Track=men's asymmetric zipper makes this lace-up easy on/off

Trolley Twirl platform with suede cuff-horsebit buckle- is top pick. Nice.

Society Fashion-frot

Alpine Andi-takes the hiker lace-up eyelets and playfully moves to the back of the upper

Mullin Spice in burnished brown leather

Denton Sand-equestrian style pull-on boot

Shoes, shoes, shoes....women's pumps remind us of a lot of the 70's era heels-not too thick but stable---and we think that those who only think of Clarks Originals---would be pleased with these on trend efforts.