How to style handcrafted festive footwear for Indian and western outfits

From zardozi heels to jewel-toned slip-ons, let your shoes take centre stage this festive season with timeless Indian craftsmanship and modern versatility. (Image: Aprajita Toor)

When it’s about footwear, the right pair doesn’t follow the outfit but it leads it. This festive season, let the silhouette of your handcrafted shoes set the tone. For festive occasions or weddings, women can style it as a statement piece, allowing traditional embroideries like zardozi and Kundan work or embellishments in pearls, crystals and semi-precious stones to take centre stage in both Indian and Western wardrobes.

Footwear is never just an accessory; it’s the anchor of your look, the quiet force that can turn simplicity into a showstopper. Designer Aprajita Toor says, “Picture heirloom-embroidered heels with a tailored Bandhgala jacket or a draped sari, or jewel-toned slip-ons with a black power suit or even just denim. These pairings breathe new life into centuries-old craftsmanship, proving that preserving tradition and redefining modern luxury can walk hand in hand.”

Styling arty footwear for every mood:

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Special occasions call for thoughtful styling, where footwear plays the lead role and the rest of the ensemble plays in harmony. Style is a symphony, and the footwear should be the conductor. Let your accessories be a whisper, not a shout, enhancing the legacy without stealing its light.

Each pair speaks in its own language, from a soft-spoken promise of elegance to a declaration of unforgettable glamour. To style it correctly, Aprajita mentions, “In handcrafted footwear, colour, embroidery, and embellishment are the poetry of personal style, you choose the verse for the moment. Deep jewel tones with opulent zardozi set the stage for festive drama, while blush pastels with whisper-fine thread-work exude daytime romance. Metallics and mirror-work catch the light of evening soirees, and bold contrasts lend a daring edge to modern silhouettes. Dress in neutral or complementary tones so every stitch and stone can breathe. Choose silhouettes that frame, not fight, the artistry beneath your feet.”

Pairing with Indian and Western looks:

One of the charms of Indian handcrafted footwear is its versatility. A richly embroidered pair of mojaris or heels can look just as stunning with a silk lehenga as it can with a sharp jumpsuit. The key is balance and let the footwear shine by keeping the rest of your look complementary. Pair jewel-toned slip-ons with a monochrome gown for cocktail parties, or wear intricate mirror-work wedges with a pastel saree for a daytime wedding.

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Caring for your handcrafted treasures:

True luxury lies in longevity, and handcrafted footwear deserves care. Store them in cloth bags, away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. Use a soft brush to clean intricate embroidery, and avoid moisture exposure to preserve delicate embellishments. Pearls and metallic embroidery tarnish or loosen when exposed to humidity. Keep them away from damp storage areas. Never use harsh cleaning agents; for pearls, a barely damp cloth can be used, followed by immediate drying.