The woman behind a range of gumboots that shoppers love from a style and practicality perspective has added a new knee-high style to her best-selling line: the Fergie.
Dani Holloway came up with the idea for Merry People when she was working a corporate job in Melbourne.
With rain one minute and beaming sun the next, Dani knew she wanted to come up with a gumboot that could comfortably be worn for long periods of time, that still looked work appropriate but that was waterproof and would keep her feet dry.
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Having grown up on a farm in South Gippsland, Victoria, she knew how useful gumboots could be.
But Dani couldn’t find a pair that bridged the gap between city and country life.
Nearly 10 years after her brand was born from a series of sketches in 2014, Merry People is more successful than ever.
The latest knee-length Fergie style ($189.95) is just the latest iteration in a series of gumboots including ankle styles, waterproof clogs and even a platform style.
The Fergie boots are as perfect for country weekends away as they are for wearing to festivals and events.
“With a long, lean silhouette and a chunkier heel, Fergie is a fashionable take on the traditional knee-high gumboot,” product information on the Merry People website reads.
“Don’t be fooled by its sleek appearance, this boot is designed, made and tested to perform. Having already gone through the paces through rigorous independent laboratory testing we know Fergie is built to take you to higher heights!”
Merry People named the Fergie Boots after the Ferguson Tree, the tallest tree recorded in Victoria.
The Fergie Boots are currently only available in black, but they are suitable for men and women.
They are made from 100 per cent waterproof rubber with flexible neoprene lining and in-built arch support to keep your feet happy at all times.
Those who have already spotted the Fergie Boots online have been quick to say they can’t wait to invest.
“These look pawfect for muddy walkies,” one shopper wrote on Instagram.
“Been wishing for this design from you guys… Yahooooo,” another added.
A third said: “These look so comfy”.
The launch of the Fergie Boots follows another bumper year for Merry People, who also launched their Billie Clogs earlier this year.
The $119.95 Clogs come in a range of colours, and they feature everything you love about gumboots but with a more versatile slip-on sandal look.
They’re great for those who want the same arch support, enhanced traction, and weather protection of Merry People’s classic Bobbi Boot, but with low-profile clogs that sit perfectly below your ankles.
“At first I thought my heel was going to sit too large on the edge but after a day of slipping them on and off and properly shoving my foot in THEY ARE MY FAVOURITE around the house shoe, take the bins out shoe, pick some lettuce from the garden shoe,” one woman remarked of the clogs.
“I have the Billie Clog in lavender and navy and it has been a game changer. I wear these to work in theatre and they are very comfy and easy to clean,” said another.
“Having already purchased the Merry Boot, I was delighted to see a clog version launched. I immediately thought, ‘Oh great, fab for the garden!’ but once they arrived, I was smitten!” a third person said.
For more information and to shop the full Merry People range including the Fergie Boots, head here now.