Cathal McAteer, a creative director, founded Folk in 2001 to provide simple and casual men's wear with "subtle, innovative and sometimes playful detailing," according to Folk's website. The company has several stand-alone shops in London and Munich and also sells stock through a number of European boutiques. Folk footwear, such as its line of Folk trainers, is made for both men and women. Men's footwear includes the Andre line of lace up boots, with gum soles and soft inner linings for extra warmth and comfort. Formal men's shoes include the Finlay line, with its circular embossed leather. Another dress shoe option is the Freddy with grained leather and durable rubber soles. The Harry line of casual shoes brings comfort and style to home and weekend activities. The menswear collection features colourful woven belts as well as shirts, pants, and outerwear like jackets and waistcoats. Folk has also branched out into women's casual wear, with blouses, jackets, slacks, and shorts, mostly in earth tones, with some bold red in the Acne line.