These are most certainly "originals."  I'm impressed with this shoe.  This is my first pair of Clarks.  I'm very familiar with this brand  due to it's popularity in the West Indies as well as  the UK.  It's an awesome shoe: comfy, stylish, and original.  Someone mentioned they wouldn't recommend them for someone who is trendy, I beg to differ.  These are the essence of style and they are really unique.  The leather is great, the colour is rich, they fit true to size, and very comfortable.  I am an 8.5 tried and true and these 8.5 fit comforatbly with room in the toe box. I agree that there is no arch support but I don't think it detracts from them being comfortable.  I have high arches and usually like a higher arch in my shoe but I have no complaint with these.  They even look good with skirts, tights and a blazer.  I'd like to buy another pair but I cannot rationalize it as I don't need them.  I have the black and I LOVE THEM! Awesome shoes! Get a pair, I promise you won't regret it :)