New York-based label Esenes Worldwide, lead by Parsons School of Designer graduate Sung Jin Jonathan Lee (known as RicePaddyDaddyy on Instagram), is making a name for itself through the Tabi Butter, a leather work boot inspired by Timberland‘s famed six-inch wheat boot featuring the distinct split toe of Maison Margiela‘s Tabi footwear.
First revealed in 2018, Esenes Worldwide’s Tabi Butter boots shot up in popularity when they were spotted on style star Erykah Badu and No Sesso‘s Pierre Davis. The shoe was further propelled into the spotlight when it was displayed and widely photographed at ComplexCon 2023.
In response to popular demand, Esenes Worldwide released a limited number of Tabi Butter boots on March 8, 2024. Adding some extra design flair, the shoes were packaged in a box mimicking I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter margarine. Swapping out the food products well known tagline, the box reads “I can’t believe it aint Butters!”
Priced at $250, the shoe immediately sold out, a testament not only to the popularity of two classic silhouettes, but also an ongoing appetite for well-executed, experimental mashups.
Enjoy a look at Esene’s Tabi Butters campaign film below.
