Clarks Originals women: Wallabee, Torhill and boat shoes
The Clarks Originals women's line brings together the heritage silhouettes of the English brand: the Wallabee in suede along with its Lite and EVO versions, the Torhill in Bee and Moss on thick soles, and the Cleyhill Boat in leather. Flat, flexible shoes that are instantly recognisable.
Clarks, an English brand
Clarks was born in 1825 in Street, Somerset, founded by brothers Cyrus and James Clark. The company's headquarters are still located there.
The Originals line brings together its heritage models, which have earned a reputation far beyond England. These are everyday shoes designed primarily for comfort.
The Wallabee, the iconic model
The Wallabee is recognisable by its moccasin-style construction: a U-shaped upper stitched over the top of the foot, a short lacing, and a thick, supple sole. Its low, rounded silhouette is unlike any other.
In suede, it has a soft, relaxed look. In leather, it develops a patina over time and fares better in the rain.
Wallabee Lite and Wallabee EVO
The Wallabee Lite lightens the original model for easier walking. The Wallabee EVO modernises the silhouette with a lighter sole, and is also available in a higher version and as a slip-on moccasin.
These variations retain the recognisable line of the Wallabee, with comfort designed for long days.
The Torhill, on a thick sole
The Torhill comes in Bee, laced, and Moss, which is closer to a moccasin. Both rest on a thick sole that adds depth to the silhouette and better insulates from cobblestones.
In suede, it pairs well with straight jeans or wide trousers for a current and comfortable look.
The Cleyhill Boat, a boat shoe
The Cleyhill Boat adopts the codes of the boat shoe: smooth leather, lacing that wraps around the foot, and a nautical look. It goes well with white trousers, chinos, or a linen skirt on sunny days.
Which Clarks Originals to choose?
- Wallabee: for the most recognisable moccasin silhouette.
- Wallabee Lite or EVO: for a lighter version for everyday wear.
- Torhill: for a thick sole and a more fashionable look.
- Cleyhill Boat: for a maritime and summery style.
Clarks Originals and outfits
A sand suede Wallabee pairs well with raw denim and a nautical sweater, in the spirit of past years. A black Torhill is worn with wide trousers and a short jacket. The Cleyhill, it, prefers light summer outfits.
These models also look great with a midi dress and fine socks for a successful contrast.
Suede, the signature material of the line
Most Originals models are available in suede, a velvety leather that gives character to the Wallabee. It is soft right from the first wear, but needs to be protected from rain with a waterproofing spray.
In case of rain, let the pair dry away from a radiator, then brush the suede to raise the nap.
Leather, for all seasons
The smooth or oiled leather versions withstand moisture better. They can be polished, nourished, and develop a nice patina over the seasons.
Choosing your size
The Wallabee has a generous fit: many narrow feet take their usual size, or even a half size smaller if available. A wider foot will appreciate the rounded front of the model.
For the Torhill, your usual size remains the right starting point.
Wearing socks with your Clarks
A visible ribbed sock above the Wallabee is a classic style. With cropped trousers, choose a colour that matches the outfit: ecru, burgundy, or green.
Caring for suede Clarks
Brush the suede dry, following the nap, after each wear. A special eraser removes small stains, and a waterproofing spray, applied before the first outing, protects against rain.
Caring for leather Clarks
Wipe the leather with a damp cloth, let it dry, then nourish it with an appropriate cream. A shoe tree maintains the shape of the shoe between wears.
The sole, to keep an eye on
The soft sole of the Originals models wears out over time, especially at the heel. A cobbler can replace it on certain models: seek advice before it becomes too damaged.
See other departments
To compare with other brands, check the women's shoes by brand, including Birkenstock and Blundstone. For style, the section women's moccasins also features the Wallabee and the slip-on Torhill.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Wallabee from Clarks?
A model built like a moccasin, with a U-shaped upper, short lacing, and a thick, supple sole.
Does the Wallabee fit large?
Its fit is generous: take your usual size, and the smaller size if you're in doubt with narrow feet.
What is the difference between Wallabee and Wallabee EVO?
The EVO modernises the original Wallabee with a lighter sole, while keeping its silhouette.
How to protect suede Clarks?
With a waterproofing spray before the first outing, then regular dry brushing.
Torhill Bee or Torhill Moss?
The Bee is laced, the Moss is closer to a moccasin; both rest on a thick sole.
Where does the Clarks brand come from?
From Street, in Somerset, England, where it was founded in 1825 and where its headquarters are still located.
