Dr. Martens and Palace are set to launch a new collaboration that revisits the classic 1461 silhouette through a distinctly British lens. Inspired by a subcultural style quirk from 1988, attaching Grolsch swing-top bottle caps to the laces, this drop reinterprets the trend with a Palace-branded bottle cap charm. The accessory nods to a look made famous by Matt Goss of Bros, the pop band best known for the hit “When Will I Be Famous.”
SHOES
This limited-edition release features three colorways: black, cherry red, and a military-inspired camo. Each pair is constructed from Dr. Martens’ signature Vintage Smooth leather, offering a slightly worn-in feel with a fine grain finish. The upper sits atop a heavy-duty BEN lug outsole, known for its enhanced grip and durability.
A key detail sets this collaboration apart: the traditional Dr. Martens “AirWair” heel loop has been swapped out for one that reads “Palace,” marking the first time the iconic loop has been rebranded. It’s an understated twist with strong character, reflecting Palace’s irreverent approach to heritage design. With the addition of the custom bottle cap lace charm, the shoes feel both nostalgic and tongue-in-cheek, true to Palace’s aesthetic.
The release is accompanied by a short film exploring the theme of “waiting.” Featuring punk legend John Cooper Clarke, Palace skaters Charlie Birch and Lucien Clarke, and actor/model Serena Motola, the film merges performance, style, and humor. Shot in Palace’s offbeat visual language, it’s less about product and more about attitude.
With this latest partnership, Dr. Martens and Palace find a shared rhythm between counterculture heritage and contemporary irreverence. The 1461 becomes a playful tribute to past style codes reimagined for today’s audience.
The collaboration will be available from April 11 online and at Palace retail stores. Dr. Martens will follow with a release on April 14, going live at 9 AM PST.
