Footwear isn’t just about comfort—it’s a statement of your style, culture, and even tradition. As fashion trends constantly change, traditional chappals continue to hold their charm. Inspired by heritage designs like Kolhapuri chappals, Rajasthani juttis, and Bantu sandals, today’s footwear trends mix authenticity with modern vibes.
From chic leather mules to comfy flip-flops, let’s take a look at seven footwear trends that bring traditional chappals into the now, while still keeping that timeless appeal.
- Kolhapuri Chappals: The Classic Statement
✔ Why It’s a Trend:
Kolhapuri chappals have been a symbol of craftsmanship for centuries. Made from genuine leather, these handcrafted beauties are durable and stylish—two qualities we all love in our footwear.
✔ How to Style:
Men: Pair them with a kurta and jeans for a fusion look that’s both comfy and stylish.
Women: Kolhapuris go great with ethnic skirts, sarees, or even casual Indo-Western outfits.
✔ Top Picks:
Kapshi Kolhapuri: Perfect for weddings, giving you a royal look.
Sinkeshwari Kolhapuri: A modern take with intricate details, adding a touch of elegance.
- Leather Mules: The Elegant Slip-Ons
✔ Why It’s a Trend:
Looking for a comfortable yet stylish footwear option? Leather mules are perfect. These backless slip-ons offer a minimalist look that works with both casual and ethnic outfits.
✔ How to Style:
Pair them with linen trousers and a kurta for a semi-formal, refined style.
Women can wear them with long dresses or palazzo sets for an effortlessly chic vibe.
✔ Top Picks:
Premium Leather Mules: Great for office wear, stylish and practical.
Handmade Mules with Embroidery: A festive must-have that combines tradition with elegance.
- Bantu Sandals: The Perfect Everyday Footwear
✔ Why It’s a Trend:
Bantu chappals are known for their comfort and handcrafted quality. Whether you’re out for a casual hangout or attending a traditional event, these sandals offer both support and style.
✔ How to Style:
Jali Bantu sandals go perfectly with cotton kurtas for a relaxed, ethnic look.
Chakla Bantu chappals work great with denim or Indo-Western outfits.
✔ Top Picks:
Khekda Bantu Chappals: Ideal for all-day wear, durable and comfy.
Chakla Bantu Sandals: Casual yet stylish for everyday ethnic looks.
- Chamde Ki Chappal: The Rustic Beauty
✔ Why It’s a Trend:
Chamde Ki Chappals, or genuine leather chappals, have a raw, earthy charm. These handmade sandals are long-lasting and mold perfectly to your feet over time, giving them a unique fit.
✔ How to Style:
Men can wear them with dhoti pants or traditional pyjamas for a classic desi look.
Women can pair them with Anarkalis, salwar suits, or even Indo-Western fusion outfits.
✔ Top Picks:
Kurundwadi Kolhapuri: Versatile and stylish, suitable for both casual and formal events.
Traditional Maharaji Chappal: Perfect for weddings and grand occasions, combining elegance with comfort.
- Flip-Flops with a Traditional Touch
✔ Why It’s a Trend:
Flip-flops are a summer staple, but when made with premium leather and traditional embroidery, they become a fashion statement. Comfortable yet stylish, these flip-flops are perfect for those laid-back days.
✔ How to Style:
Great for beach vacations, casual outings, or just relaxing.
Pair them with summer dresses, shorts, or casual ethnic kurtas for that effortlessly cool vibe.
✔ Top Picks:
Leather Flip-Flops with Ethnic Designs: An upgrade from your regular flip-flops, stylish and comfy.
Handcrafted Slippers with Intricate Detailing: A perfect mix of comfort and tradition, adding a unique touch to your casual look.
- Rajasthani Juttis: The Royal Touch
✔ Why It’s a Trend:
Juttis have been around for centuries and are a staple of royal Indian fashion. Ornate, stylish, and versatile, they’re a favorite among both men and women for festive and wedding wear.
✔ How to Style:
Wear embroidered juttis with wedding attire or festive outfits for that royal flair.
Pair them with churidar pants, salwar suits, or even Indo-Western dresses for an elegant, traditional touch.
✔ Top Picks:
Classic Rajasthani Juttis: Perfect for any festive occasion, adding that traditional royal look.
Contemporary Juttis with Metallic Finishes: Modernize your ethnic look with a contemporary take on this classic.
- Handmade Leather Slippers: Timeless Comfort
✔ Why It’s a Trend:
Handmade leather slippers are the perfect balance between comfort and elegance. Easy to slip on and off, they’re ideal for both casual and semi-formal occasions.
✔ How to Style:
Pair them with straight-cut pants and kurtas for a clean, effortless look—perfect for daily outings or relaxed traditional gatherings.
✔ Top Picks:
Chamda Slippers with Intricate Hand-Stitching: A classic staple that adds a traditional touch to your wardrobe.
Original Leather Slippers with Modern Designs: Stylish, durable, and perfect for adding a chic yet traditional vibe to your look.
Final Thoughts: Traditional Meets Trendy
From leather mules to handcrafted juttis, ethnic footwear is blending seamlessly with modern fashion. These styles not only showcase India’s rich craftsmanship but also offer comfort, elegance, and versatility for any occasion.
Looking for top-quality handcrafted leather footwear? Check out SelectU for the finest collection of ethnic chappals, sandals, and leather slippers—where tradition meets style!
