Whether you've been wearing gumboots for decades or you're new to the world of modern, vegan rubber boots, you'll almost definitely have been influenced by some of the many celebrities and public figures who have been spotted in Merry People boots, including Daniella Monet and Courtney-Mae Briggs!
Like every item of footwear, there's a long and interesting fashion history and evolution of gumboots from their early inception, but style-conscious buyers often tell us they've heard of Merry People from their favorite celebrities.
We wanted to take a look at how rainboots have become a staple in every closet and how famous faces have helped showcase how beautiful boots can be styled.
A Snapshot of Waterproof Boot Style:
Did you know those waterproof boots you splash around in were inspired by a design centuries old?
- 18th Century: German mercenaries wore soft, calf skin boots.
- 1817: Arthur Wellesley — the first Duke of Wellington — had some of these original boots modified with the leather cut closer to the leg to make them more practical for battle. The 'Wellington Boot' as they quickly became known became instantly popular.
- 1850s: Vulcanisation was invented, making natural rubber moldable and waterproof which led to waterproof rubber boots being worn by farmers who had previously worn clogs.
- WW1: The British Army commissioned millions of rubber boots for soldiers and after the war, returning soldiers continued wearing this style in gardens and farms.
- 1960s onwards: Gumboots — as they became known in Australia due to the 'gum rubber' used in their construction — became popular at festivals and fashion runways with brands like Merry People helping transport this functional style into a fashionable essential.
Gumboots, Rainboots, Wellies — What's the Difference?
There are many names for the same beloved boot! 'Rainboots' is the more commonly used term in the US, while in the UK you'll hear 'Wellies' or 'Wellington boots.' In Australia, they're called 'gumboots' — named after the natural gum rubber extracted from the rubber tree. That same natural, vegan rubber is what we use in every single Merry People design, making our boots flexible, durable, and kind to the planet.
We Love To See It: Celebrities Wearing Waterproof Boots
Whether you've been wearing boots since you were a kid — just like our founder and CEO Dani — or you're new to the world of modern, vegan rubber boots, you'll almost definitely have been influenced by some of the many celebrities spotted in Merry People!
- Who can forget the images of iconic British Supermodel Kate Moss striding onto the muddy fields of the UK Glastonbury festival in 2005, matching her rainboots with cut-off jeans? Little did we know that a fresh, functional fashion trend was about to take over the world, cementing waterproof footwear into the style landscape forever.
- The British royals have long worn rainboots, often paired with classic Barbour jackets and tweed prints, but Princess Diana turned these from practical country footwear into a modern must-have when she was snapped wearing them with 'rural chic' outfits that millions replicated.
- Singers Rita Ora and Dua Lipa, plus actresses Jennifer Garner and Sarah Jessica Parker, have kept the dream alive lately, donning waterproof boots from London to New York during their daily outings.
How Celebrities Impact Our Fashion and Styling Decisions
Scrolling socials? Chances are you are being influenced by brands and trend-setters every second! We love seeing the celebrities that wear our boots from holidays to hiking, rainy events to rural living.
Because our brand hit ground in 2014 — at a time when celebrities had begun wearing gumboots for more than just hikes — they have become a fast favourite, blending functionality and fashion-forward style.
Famous Fans of Merry People's Vibrant Gumboots
Here are just some of the stars who've featured Merry People gumboots on their socials:
Chloé Hayden
Chloé Hayden, who plays Quinni on Netflix hit "Heartbreak High" was spotted in our stunning bright yellow Sunflower Bobbi Boots and wore them with a matching-shade rain jacket to a carnival!
Courtney-Mae Briggs
Courtney-Mae Briggs, who starred in "Back to the Future: The Musical" and the "Wicked" movie, has multiple pairs of Merry People boots. Check out her socials for some outfit ideas!
Daniella Monet
Daniella Monet from "Zoey 101," "Listen Up," and the "Nancy Drew" movie, is a Merry People fan and loves our Tully Boots in Black and our effortlessly chic Bobbi Boot in Rust.
And more!
This is just a snippet of the mentions we're always delighted to receive! We've seen Shenae Grimes-Beech from "90210" stepping out in our Bobbi Boots in Black; we're also told that even Harry Styles' mum owns a pair of Merry People gumboots!
Shop the Boots Celebrities Love
Ready to find your own pair? Whether you're after knee-height boots for serious splash protection, a classic ankle boot, or something for the little ones, we've got a style for every adventure.
Browse our full gumboot collection — made from natural, vegan rubber and built to go wherever life takes you.
