Did you ever purchase a stunning pair of handmade shoes and find yourself stumped on what to pair them with? If so, you're not the only one! Because of their distinctive style and cultural appeal, these shoes sometimes tend to be challenging to match. 

Here's the best part: handmade shoes are far more adaptable than you might believe, and matching them with a traditional and a Western garment can be a blast! Let’s go through how you can dress your handmade shoes confidently, whether you're off to a wedding or simply going out for a daily outing

Why Handcrafted Footwear is Worth the Hype

There's a lot of love and skill put into handcrafted footwear. Artisans create each pair with love and follow traditional methods. These aren't mass-produced—every detail counts. Comfort and quality, and also a unique charm, courtesy of each piece being unique. Most ladies' footwears today have traditional artistry with contemporary flair, giving you the best of both worlds. By wearing handmade footwear, you're also supporting local crafts and sustainable fashion.

Pairing Handcrafted Footwear with Ethnic Outfits

Traditional Indian clothes and handmade footwear complement each other perfectly. From a wedding ceremony to a festival or a family function, here's a guide on how you can style them perfectly:

1. Juttis for sarees and kurtas

Juttis are evergreen. Go for printed or embroidered juttis and match them with plain-coloured sarees or kurtas. If you want a party look, choose ones featuring zari or mirror work.

Footwear Style Tip: If you've got a heavy work outfit, keep your juttis understated and vice versa. It maintains a perfect balance.

2. Kolhapuris paired with Palazzos or Anarkalis

Kolhapuris are comfortable to wear and complement flowy ethnic outfits such as palazzos or long anarkalis.

3. Mojaris with Lehenga

Getting married soon? Mojaris match well with lehengas or shararas. Opt for designs featuring beads or threadwork corresponding to your outfit accents.

Pairing Handcrafted Footwear with Western Outfits

Do not think handcrafted shoes can be used only for traditional dress? Think otherwise. With changing fashion, they now complement contemporary looks as well.

1. Embellished Flats with Dress

Flats that have flower or tribal embroidery look great when paired with everyday dresses. It gives a splash of colour and texture to your look, perfect for a weekend brunch or a shopping outing.

2. Leather Sliders and Jeans

Tan or black hand-stamped leather sliders will make any jeans-and-tee look chic. They're dressy yet laid-back.

3. Mules with Skirts or Jumpsuits

Ethnically-patterned or handmade mules look great as part of long skirts or jumpsuits. They add a laid-back boho feel to your western outfits.

Footwear Style Tip: Mix and match ethnic textures such as jute or leather with contemporary fabrics like linen, cotton, or denim to produce a striking contrast.

How to Care for Your Handcrafted Footwear

For your hand-crafted footwear to remain fresh and enduring:

• Do not expose them to water or mud.

• Wipe with a soft material—no chemicals.

• Use a dry brush on the embroidered areas.

• Store it in a cloth bag or a shoebox.

• Add a single protector if used outdoors regularly.

Maintaining your footwear keeps it both attractive and wearable for years to come.

Your shoes are not just what you put on your feet—you're telling a story about your taste, comfort, and personality. In a hand-crafted pair of shoes, you're not merely making a style statement—you're embracing art and heritage.

So the next time you're unsure what to match with that hand-embellished jutti or hand-woven mule, remember this guide. From saree to skirt, there's a handmade pair waiting to make your outfit pop.

And if you're looking for chic and distinctive handmade pieces, check out Heritage Haat, for gorgeous, handmade designs you'll adore wearing—whether it's for everyday or special occasions.