Learn The Story Of Ethnic Footwear In India

Footwear was crafted to protect feet from cold ground, dust and now it is no less than a fashion statement. They were originally made out of wool or leather.

Evolution of Footwear

Footwear like everything else has its history rooting back to the ice age about millions of years ago. With human evolution, change in era and weather conditions, demand for footwear began to grow at a high rate. Some historical sources express that footwear came to use at the end of the Paleolithic era, along with the time early humans learned the art of leather tanning.

History of Indian Footwear

Societies around the world showcased their culture through their ethnic shoes such as Chinese lotus shoes, Roman gladiators, Japanese okobos, and a lot more. These cultural values, beliefs and traditions have always reflected upon the pieces of your outer appearance, and Indian footwear is no exception.

Half a century ago, India was widely known as a barefoot nation. However, the foot is considered as a significant part of the human body in the Indian culture. Thus, footwear was known to be a luxury item in Indian society, but still, India was famous for its traditional craft of footwear making. The Saints later only wore the Indian sandals known as Padukas.

Different Varieties Of Traditional Indian Footwear

Styles and trends in the shoe sector are a lot more centric on combining historical patterns and designs. Most shoemakers across the globe are pioneering the concept of blending traditionally worn footwear into mainstream contemporary fashions and fashion trends. Continue your research about the ethnic Indian footwear before you make your purchase for any occasion.

• Kolhapuri Chappal: The traditional Indian footwear that is countrywide known as chappal, comes in a large variety of designs and is both comfortable and durable. Kolhapuri chappal is generally well-designed in Kolhapur, Maharashtra and is made from processed leather. It is sturdy, long-lasting, and stout. Currently, it is designed in a lot more modern and contemporary way to reach global masses.
• Khussa: The Indian footwear’s popularity can also be attributed to ballerina flats making progress into casual footwear. These are a local and far more jazzy variant of the ballerina shoes. The traditional leather plain khussa nowadays is available in every possible material and embellishment such as silver and gold zari work, sequins, velvet, mirror work and ribbons.
• Jutti’s: Most modern shoe designers have converted the ancient austere searching functional footwear into style statements with a hint of zest. ‘Juttis’ is one such traditional style of footwear that has held on to its heritage, shape, and style through all these years of civilization. Over time, these shoes gained a lot of popularity in Punjab and underwent numerous types of creation and experimentation.

Conclusion

The process of creating stylish ethnic shoes starts with sketching the designs, handpicking quality fabrics and using the latest tools to bring creation into life. Numerous brands strive to offer excellence in design and quality at affordable rates.