Dr. Martens is my sole mate

Dr. Martens made its comeback at Robinsons Place Manila. Since then, Dr. Martens has also opened stores in SM North Edsa, Ayala Center Cebu, Abreeza Mall Davao, GH Mall Ortigas, and now, Glorietta.

“We’re excited that Dr. Martens is back in Glorietta. We’re very happy to be in the Makati Central Business District. There’s been a lot of clamor for this location,” said Francesca Perfecto, senior marketing manager for MAP Active Philippines.

Dr. Martens fans gathered for the opening, many of them wearing their favorite pairs. Artists from Solar Boy Tattoo Studio, including Solar Boy himself, were customizing Dr. Martens shoes at the event.

Myrza Sison and I were twinning that day—we both wore the 2976 Max Leather Platform Chelsea Boots. “Where did you get yours?” she asked.

“LA!” I said.

“Me, too!” she replied.

But now, if we want a new pair, all we have to do is head to Glorietta to shop.

Iconic silhouettes

The store carries the brand’s iconic silhouettes—the 1460 boots, 1461 Oxford shoes, Chelsea boots and Adrian loafers.

In addition to The Icons, also known as The Originals, the store stocks Mary Janes, sandals, slides and the special Made in England line, featuring footwear still handcrafted at the original Dr. Martens factory in Wollaston, Northamptonshire.

Also available at the store are bags, socks, shoelaces and the brand’s shoe care line.

“We also have the latest styles from our autumn/winter 2026 collection,” said Francesca.

You can also cop collaborations at the store, including the recently released The Powerpuff Girls x Dr. Martens Heroes and Villains Collection.

Collectors

There are a lot of Dr. Martens collectors in the Philippines. “They’re always asking for different colorways, the greens, the maroons... the different kinds of soles,” said Francesca.

I’m a huge Dr. Martens fan. I’ve spent decades in Docs. I was even going to be part of the brand’s “Tough As You” campaign. We had shot the videos and everything—but the pandemic killed the release. Don’t ask how many pairs I have—it’s a ridiculous amount. I just love the brand.

For many, including myself, Dr. Martens brings a lot of nostalgia. But the brand’s appeal goes beyond those of us who grew up with it. “Gen Z is a strong market for Dr. Martens. Many of them are starting their Dr. Martens journey.”

The idea of breaking in a new pair of Dr. Martens still daunts some people. But there are plenty of newer styles that don’t require it.

I wore my 2976 Max Leather Platform Chelsea Boots straight out of the box and was on my feet covering a red carpet event for about eight hours that day, no problem.

My tip for people wearing new boots? Double socks. It’s the way to go.

At the Glorietta store, I faced a dilemma that I’ve faced in many Dr. Martens stores around the world: which pair to bring home?

I had my eye on three: the black 1461 Quad, the black Adrian Bex loafers and the black Jadon Boots.

Eventually, I narrowed it down to two options: the Jadon boots or the Adrian loafers. I agonized over the decision. It was a tough call. I have a ton of Dr. Martens boots and I also have 1461s, Mary Janes and sandals. What I didn’t have was a pair of loafers, so maybe the Adrian made more sense. But then again, the Jadon boots just looked so cool.

In the end, I went for the Jadon. I guess I’ll always be a boot girl at heart. Although I have a feeling I’ll end up getting the loafers, too.

See you again soon, Dr. Martens Glorietta.