Undercover Shoes were the brainchild of John Fried, the entrepreneur who started Retro Star London. In his search for reproductions of the stage and street shoes worn by bands and their followers from the 50's to 90's he found very little for the shop, so decided to make them himself.

As a huge fan of British street style and subcultures like Mods, Punks, Goths and even Hippies, he set about getting the range together. 

Winklepickers: Originating in the 1950s, winklepickers gained prominence among the Royalty of Rock at the time. Worn by bands such as The Rolling Stones and The Beatles, winklepickers became a symbol of nonconformity and youthful rebellion. Undercover Shoes love their Strange Winklepicker Boots. 

Undercover Shoes Mens Strange 3 Strap Blitz Punk/Goth Winklepicker Boots

Monk Shoes: With their distinctive buckle straps, monk shoes have a history rooted in ecclesiastical traditions. However, they found a new life outside the church walls during the 1960s and 1970s. They were adopted by the mod subculture and later embraced by the punk movement. 

Undercover Shoes Mens Buzzcock Rockabilly Interlace Monk Shoes

Beatle Boots: Inspired by the footwear worn by The Beatles during their early years, Beatle boots with their cuban heels and twin gusset became an emblem of the 1960s British culture. Undercover Shoes pays homage to the legacy of Beatle boots with their George Twin Gusset Winklepicker Beatle Boot. 

Undercover Shoes Mens George Twin Gusset 60s Mod Winklepicker Beatle Boots

Creepers: Originally known as Brothel creepers. Originating in the 1940s, creepers were initially worn by soldiers during World War II. However, in the 1950s Teddy Boys and the King of Rock 'n' Roll Elvis Presley wore them. Characterized by thick crepe soles and lattice tops, creepers later became part of the punk style.

Undercover Shoes Womens Strummer Double Sole Rockabilly Creeper Shoes

Rebel music shoe and boot styles like winklepickers, monk shoes, Beatle boots, and brothel creepers have left their mark on fashion history and some originals are preserved in the Victoria and Albert museum .