The iconic work- and streetwear accessory is an American wardrobe staple beloved by Naomi Campbell, Emily Ratajkowski, Teyana Taylor, and hip-hop legends.Jonathan Borge is the Deputy Editor of InStyle. He primarily writes about culture and style and has a passion for telling LGBTQ+ and Latinx stories. When he's not working, he's likely waiting for Lady Gaga to announce her next tour.
In July, I had the privilege of visiting Timberland’s headquarters in Stratham, New Hampshire, and spent time with Willoughhby and her team discussing, well, boots. “The Yellow Boot is no longer just footwear; it’s a cultural icon that adapts and thrives, reflecting on the ever-changing landscape of fashion, identity, and social impact.”
Because of the original boot’s success, a 6-inch version was released three years later, and the company eventually rebranded as Timberland in 1978, initially focused on creating rugged work boots for the labor force long before becoming the footwear, accessories, and apparel behemoth it is today.“Today’s boot is remarkably similar to the original product—we’re actually pretty reluctant to make changes to it,” Dardinski says, teeing up an explanation of the evolution of Yellow Boot consumer.