Wear Kolhapuri chappals, the OG way

Barring the blatant cultural theft and copycat claims, the Prada show has brought into the spotlight, once again, a beloved Indian classic whose desi roots go as far back as the 12th Century. So intertwined is the history of the footwear with the history of the region of its origin that the term ‘Kolhapuri chappal’ bears a GI tag that permits only those pairs made in the Kolhapur, Sangli, Satara and Solapur districts of Maharashtra and the Bagalkot, Belagavi, Dharwad and Bijapur districts of Karnataka to be labelled as such. Traditionally made of leather in a painstaking by-hand process that can take up to six weeks, a well-maintained pair of Kolhapuris can last their wearer a lifetime.

Sara Ali Khan sports a Kolhapuri chappal variant on vacation. Pic Courtesy/saraalikhan95 on Instagram

The ubiquity of the footwear has contributed to its lasting popularity among both, lovers of fashion and those who prioritise practicality — two subsets that rarely intersect. In fact, college-goers of the ’90s and naughties would once cite this as a wardrobe essential, simply because it ‘went with everything’, had the anti-establishment aesthetic that the generation prized and looked like you were making an effort even when you weren’t. If you missed that wave of accidental fashionistas or are inspired by Prada to add a pair to your collection, here’s our pick of shopping options that bring the looks without breaking the bank.

Representation Pics/Istock

Sai Vaibhav Footwear, Khar

The store prides itself on using ethically sourced leather and time-honoured crafting traditions. On offer are traditional styles, including the popular senapati, maharaja and moja shapes, which are sold in various non-traditional colours as well. We are especially partial to their ‘antique’ collection, which has more ornate, embellished styles for the adventurous wearer. As a bonus, you can also bring in your used Kolhapuris and have them repaired by in-house artisans. Prices begin at Rs 1200 upwards.
AT Khar Pali Road-14th Road Junction, Khar West.
CALL 7506995033

Anupam Chappals, Colaba

Tucked away near Leopold Cafe & Bar, this store specialises in affordable Kolhapuri chappals. The store offers traditional and modern variations, including versatile metallic options, and is open to customisation for larger sizes. We love the vibrant coloured designs, which add a contemporary twist. Grab a pair to make a stylish statement with your bohemian dresses, maxi skirts or even your tapered ankle pants. Prices start at Rs 500 upwards.
AT CityWalk House, NF Road, Apollo Bunder, Colaba.
Arvind Chappal Mart, 

Dadar West

A reader favourite, this store has a tidy assortment of styles for men and women. The attractive prices (the collection begins at Rs 400) and minimalist styles make the iconic Kolhapuri footwear accessible to millennial and Gen Z audiences. The designs pair well with both ethnic and Western clothing.  
AT Ranade Road, opposite Vikram Jewellers, Dadar West.
CALL 8779680190

Online buys

Pic Courtesy/@chappers

Chappers: This brand was conceived by Harshwardhan Patwardhan in Nottingham, where he was studying brand management — he claims that he was surprised by the several compliments his traditional Kolhapuri sandals garnered him. Patwardhan went on to reimagine the classic style with sleeker silhouettes, striking colours, and tech-enabled customisation. They also added cushioned insoles and ergonomic footbeds for more comfort and to do away with the uncomfortable break-in period that are synonymous with Kolhapuris. The soles are reinforced with high-grade rubber to make them more resistant to wear and tear. We love the sleek finish of the Kohls collection, which has animal prints, textured finishes, delicate metal accents and a modern colour palette of mint, gunmetal and yellow. Prices start at Rs 1495.
LOG ON TO chappers.in

Pics courtesy/aparajitatoor on Instagram

Designer spin: Mumbai-based Aprajita Toor is often called the ‘Kolhapuri Queen’ for her fascination with Kolhapuri chappals. Her designs get a posh upgrade with memory foam cushion soles, sky-high heels and exquisite embellishments — the resultant pieces can take you from fancy dinners to elaborate weddings and everything in between.  

We are partial to the Kolhapuri wedges, which combine pop colours with wearability, and her colour-blocked wedge heels for sensible fun, and her platform pencil heels for the avant-garde fashion risk-taker. The collections are priced at Rs 4000 upwards.
LOG ON TO aprajitatoor.com

Get inspired

>> Flat or broad-strapped Kolhapuris work best with voluminous Indian outfits, while thinner straps balance proportion on sleeker looks.
>> Swap out your heels with embroidered Kolhapuris to add earthy elegance to the simplest looks.
>> Statement Kolhapuris work best with minimal silhouettes, monotone outfits, and breathable fabrics. Let your footwear be the focal point. 
>> When wearing casual Western looks, such as jeans or shorts, choose tan Kolhapuris for an effortlessly casual look. 
>> Multi-coloured Kolhapuris are an easy way to inject freshness into a classic without veering too far off-course. Deep brown and tan can be a versatile and uncanny combination.

Mitali Ambekar, celebrity stylist