'Depression-chic' collection inspired by women who shaped and defined post-industrial America

STRATHAM, N.H., May 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The Timberland Company announced today that it will launch the Timberland Boot Company(TM) collection for women in Fall 2009 (available at retail in September). Since its debut in the UK in 2005 and its American introduction in 2007, the Timberland Boot Company(TM) men's collection has resonated strongly with discerning consumers who appreciate upper-echelon quality and authentic design. The new collection will offer women a line of trend-right, premium footwear designed with reverence for and dedication to the art of bootmaking.

Developed as a tribute to the strong, independent women who shaped post-industrial America, the Fall 2009 debut collection features beautifully-crafted and purposeful footwear designed by and for women. Modern silhouettes, inspired by traditional menswear, are tailored with a feminine twist, and delicate cues evoke stories in which shoes were mended and embellished over time.

Each shoe in the Fall 2009 Timberland Boot Company(TM) women's collection is handcrafted to look 'well worn,' much like their counterparts in the acclaimed men's collection. Post-applied details like a whimsical stitch, a piece of ribbon, a patch of leather or an interesting fabric, are materials a woman of the depression era would have had access to at home or in the workplace to repair or update her shoes. This process results in subtle variances that make each shoe unique.

The line includes three key collections, designed by three different designers. Each designer approached her collection by researching the time period to identify societal milestones that may have affected what women were wearing. They identified fictional and real-life female icons -- including Georgia O'Keefe, Rosie the Riveter and their own grandmothers -- pulling inspiration from both historical and family archives.

• Marge - Inspired by the women who moved to cities and entered the workforce, styles (including Peep Toe and Lace Up heels) feature simple stitching and delicate details - embellishments that convey a unique sense of femininity and individuality. Women, then and now, might wear these as a casual office heel.

• Lucille - Inspired by the days when women were called upon by their country for duty - in factories and on assembly lines - styles (including Lace Up and Tall Boots) feature toned-down leathers that appear worn and repaired, to reflect the utility and ingenuity of the era.