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The promise of a great boot, well-made, locally made too, that can last a lifetime is too good not to share, it seems. And one of the best, R.M. Williams, has just announced that an expansion to their iconic footwear with a new production line at their Adelaide workshop dedicated solely to women’s boots.
This savvy expansion is a two-pronged approach by owner Tattarang, firstly to boot up the local craft and skills while putting them in a position to meet the soaring demand from its fashion-forward female fans which currently sits at 15 percent of sales.
The women’s line from R.M. Williams offers an array of Chelsea boots designed with a female perspective in mind that includes several designs tailored to modern women. The ‘Adelaide’ merges everyday functionality with smart-casual style, while the ‘Erica’ offers a fresh take on the chisel-toe design with new seasonal colours. The ‘Lady Yearling’, a bestseller, maintains its elegance with a low block heel. Newer additions like the ‘Maya’ feature a taller block heel for a striking look, and the ‘Millicent’ and ‘Moriarty’ boots mix comfort with contemporary styling. The ‘Rosebery’ pays homage to the brand’s rustic origins while meeting contemporary fashion needs.
The expanded line also includes seven distinctive styles, each with varying heel heights and designs, suitable for a range of occasions from daily essentials to formal events. The launch not only amplifies R.M.Williams’ portfolio but also reiterates the brand’s commitment to exceptional craftsmanship, with each pair of boots still being meticulously handcrafted through 80 expert steps.
This initiative is backed by substantial local investment, including the creation of 70 new jobs at the brand’s Salisbury site in Adelaide’s northern suburbs, driven by an $8 million investment in modern equipment. This facility expansion will enhance the brand’s capabilities in both footwear and broader leather crafts, supporting repair services for apparel as well.
R.M.Williams is also doubling down on its investment in future talent. The introduction of a new Industrial Sewing certification program, in collaboration with TAFE South Australia, extends their educational initiatives. This program complements the successful Leather Cert III course, which launched last year, emphasising the brand’s dedication to cultivating a skilled workforce.
The brand’s other commitment to innovation and gender inclusivity in craftsmanship is embodied by Chloe Fabian, R.M.Williams’ first female master craftsman. Her pioneering role is crucial in the crafting of the new women’s line, demonstrating a commitment to excellence and an evolution of the brand’s traditional values. Fabian’s leadership has ensured that the high standards of boots are upheld but is also an inspiration for future generations of female artisans in the industry.
The story of R.M.Williams, which dates back to its 1932 inception by Reginald Murray Williams, is deeply woven into the fabric of Australian heritage. Originally crafting leather goods suited to the rugged Australian landscape, the brand has evolved into a globally recognised name, famed for its durable, elegantly designed boots crafted from single pieces of leather.
