The History and Evolution of Shoe Design and Fashion in India

India, a nation known for its skilled craftsmen, has long been admired for its traditional footwear manufacturing. Leather chappals in Kohlapur, embroidered Juttis in Jodhpur, Indo-Tibetan felt boots in Sikkim, and vegetable fiber shoes in Ladakhor are a few examples of the traditional footwear made by village craftsmen.

Ancient Period

Various variables, including cultural, social, economic, and technical advancements, have impacted the history and evolution of shoe design and fashion in India. Here is a summary of the shoe journey in India. Handmade footwear was a rich tradition in ancient India. Based on the local customs and resources available, different locations developed varied styles.

For millennia, shoes have held considerable cultural importance in India, dating back to the Indus Valley Civilization. In ancient times, footwear was fashioned from bark, grass, and leaves. Over time, there was a progression in materials, incorporating wood and leather, signifying a notable shift in the craftsmanship of shoes in India.

Medieval Period

During the Mughal era, what started as a piece of clothing made solely for practical use started getting fashionable touches, with shoes being embroidered and embellished as a symbol of one’s wealth and status. This practice has evolved, and shoes are no longer only a necessity; they are now a fashion statement.

Colonial Period

Western-style footwear was introduced during the colonial era, particularly by the urban elite, for the urban elite. Formal footwear evolved, taking cues from British fashions and becoming more fitted and structured.

Post-Independence Period

Globalization and post-independence economic expansion have made a large variety of foreign footwear brands available in India. Modification and urbanization led to shifts in fashion tastes.

21st Century

Thanks to globalization, we are able to witness this cool mix of traditional and global styles come together. Sporty shoes, sneakers, and casual kicks are catching on big time. And with online shopping taking over, we've got this awesome variety of shoes at our fingertips, even the fancy ones from around the world. What's neat is that now you can jazz up your shoes however you like with all these customization options. It's like making your footwear your personal style statement! Indian shoe designers are gaining national and worldwide recognition for their unique and imaginative designs.

Finally, there's LaceOn, a special shoe brand that mixes tradition with modern style. LaceOn is known for its one-of-a-kind, cool, and comfy shoes. It captures the essence of India's long history of making shoes while keeping up with the latest global trends. When you wear LaceOn, each step you take says something. They combine old-school craftsmanship with modern tech, changing the fashion scene one pair of shoes at a time.