How Indian Footwear Brands Are Redefining Global Style – News18
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From luxurious Mary Janes to bold, artistic sneakers, these brands are proving that Indian craftsmanship can set trends across the globe
Aprajita Toor (left) and Fizzy Goblet (right), are breaking barriers with their unique approaches to footwear.
Indian footwear brands are stepping into the global spotlight by blending traditional craftsmanship with innovative design. Offering everything from artisanal detailing to versatile modern silhouettes, these labels are proving that shoes can tell stories that resonate across cultures. Here’s how two trailblazing brands, Aprajita Toor and Fizzy Goblet, are breaking barriers with their unique approaches to footwear.
Reinventing a Classic: The Mary Jane Reimagined
Mary Janes have made a big comeback this year, but few brands have truly reinvented the silhouette — until now. With the Aprajita Toor x Scherezade Shroff (AT x SS) collaboration, the iconic design gets a luxurious, artistic upgrade.
“Mary Janes have been the talk of the town for a good part of the year,” says Aprajita Toor, founder of the eponymous brand. “What began in December 2023 was a realization that the market offered limited options for this comfortable and universal style. Our new collection celebrates friendship, craftsmanship, and style!”
The AT x SS collection features three signature styles:
- Plain Janes: A minimal yet chic interpretation of the Mary Jane silhouette, perfect for daily wear.
- Rebel Janes: A bold, fashion-forward take for those who love to stand out effortlessly.
- Umrao Janes: The pièce de résistance of the collection, featuring velvet, handwoven Zardosi, and embellishments like pearls and bows. These luxurious designs are a tribute to timeless Indian artistry and glamour.
“Umrao Janes are a nod to the diva who settles for nothing but the best,” Toor adds.
Stepping into Sneakers
For Fizzy Goblet, innovation has always been part of the journey. Known for merging artistry with functionality, the brand has now ventured into sneakers, marking an exciting new chapter.
“Launching our first sneaker collection feels like a full-circle moment,” shares Laksheeta Govil, Founder and Creative Director. “It bridges the gap between functionality and artistic expression, evolving from where we began with hand-painted sneakers.”
The collection features modern textures like suede and raffia, paired with a custom sole for enhanced comfort. True to Fizzy Goblet’s signature creativity, even the brand’s logo gets a playful twist — split between the left (‘F’) and right (‘G’) sneakers.
The Evolution of Aprajita Toor: From Roots to Recognition
Since its inception in 2012, Aprajita Toor has been synonymous with luxury, comfort, and handcrafted excellence. Relying solely on traditional handcrafting techniques and using premium materials, the brand has seamlessly combined contemporary styles with classical Indian art forms.
“Handcrafted, luxury, and comfort are more than just tags for us,” Toor explains. “They define our ethos. From a small homegrown label, we’ve grown onto the global stage, not just with the Indian diaspora but with international audiences who appreciate authentic design and craftsmanship.”
What sets the brand apart is its personalized approach: every pair of shoes is customized for the wearer, ensuring a perfect fit that prioritizes both style and comfort.
Beyond Juttis: The Evolution of Fizzy Goblet
While traditional juttis remain a signature product, Fizzy Goblet has expanded its repertoire to include sliders, bags, and now sneakers. “We continually infuse modern sensibilities into our designs, creating products that speak to today’s global buyers,” says Govil.
What sets the brand apart is its versatility. Whether it’s a festive gathering or a casual outing, Fizzy Goblet’s offerings blend comfort and style, making them a staple for modern, on-the-go lifestyles.
The Global Footprint of Indian Footwear
Both Aprajita Toor and Fizzy Goblet exemplify how Indian footwear brands are rewriting the rules of global fashion. By combining artisanal detailing with innovative design, these labels are not only winning hearts locally but also earning accolades internationally.
As Aprajita Toor puts it, “The world loves good design, and word-of-mouth support from our clients has propelled us to the global stage.” Similarly, Govil sees Fizzy Goblet’s journey as a testament to the power of blending tradition with contemporary flair.
From luxurious Mary Janes to bold, artistic sneakers, these brands are proving that Indian craftsmanship can set trends across the globe. With their commitment to quality and creativity, they’re truly walking the talk — one stylish step at a time.
