Reginald Murray Williams. Source: RMWilliams
IT’S rare to see the name RM Williams mentioned in the same sentence as high fashion.
But a London website suggested that with “a spot of spit and polish RM Williams could be a … home-grown luxury brand for the cashed-up cobber”. Think Ralph Lauren in a cork hat! Image if a uniquely Australian brand could be as successful as Ralph Lauren?
Reginald Murray Williams, born in South Australia, in 1908, was an Australian bushman who made his name making boots. At 13, Williams packed his swag and headed for the interior. At 18 he spent three years trekking the Australian desert working as a camel driver learning how to survive the harsh conditions. He also learnt leather-working skills — making bridles, pack saddles and riding boots — from a horseman called Dollar Mick.
But in 1932 when Williams began selling his saddles to wealthy pastoralist Sir Sidney Kidman, he set up a small factory in his father’s back shed in Adelaide. However, it was his boots — made of a single piece of leather and stitched at the rear of the boot — that were his most successful.
Ralph Lauren started making ties in the 1960s and went on to redefine American style. So there is no reason why RM Williams cannot enjoy the same success. Maybe if the brand was more relevant for today’s largely urban masses “without betraying its ruggedly unfussy practicality” if could?
So how do we get behind this iconic brand? How does executive designer and former Sydney couturier Jonathan Ward change it up? I’d love to be involved somehow. Let me know what you think. Ever stylishly yours …
