We spoke to designer Aayush D Khurana, who is also an author, social media influencer and founder of Domain Shoes, which owns the Modello Domani label. He elaborated on how men’s shoe fashion trends are witnessing a significant transformation and how for men, shoes have now moved beyond just regular formals and sneakers.
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Juttis, clogs and black shoes have long been the traditional choices for weddings. Do you think it’s time for a change in men’s wedding shoes? If yes, what options can help the groom stand out?
While juttis, slippers and black shoes are evergreen and elegant choices for wedding attire, bringing more variety to men’s wedding shoes can be a refreshing change. Here are a few options that can help the groom stand out:
– Embroidered Slipon : A stylish and comfortable option, intricately embroidered loafers can add a touch of modern elegance while complementing traditional attire. Colours like deep burgundy, royal blue or beige can make a statement while maintaining a classic look.
– leather sandals: For a more casual or beach wedding, handmade leather sandals can be an attractive option, especially when worn with a modern kurta or dhoti.
– Sneakers: High-end sneakers in sleek designs, possibly with metallic or embroidered accents, can provide a contemporary edge while ensuring comfort. We are currently working on creating India’s first collection of Zardozi hand-embroidered sneakers exclusively for weddings.
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– Colourful shoes or slippers: Revamp traditional shoes by opting for juttis or mojris in bright colours or patterns and make them the highlight of your outfit.
These options not only offer a fresh perspective, but also give the groom an opportunity to express his personality and complement the overall theme of the wedding.
What are the emerging footwear trends that will dominate the shoe market by 2025?
As we approach 2025, several emerging footwear trends are set to dominate the market, blending innovation with style and functionality:
– Ultra Comfort Shoes: Shoes that include memory foam padding in the insole, with a greater focus on overall comfort, including arch support, and diabetic-friendly shoes that are extremely soft and comfortable.
– Sustainable and ethical choice: Sustainability continues to be a driving force in fashion, with more brands focusing on eco-friendly materials such as recycled fabrics, biodegradable soles, and plant-based leather alternatives. Consumers are demanding transparency in production processes, prompting brands to adopt green practices.
– Customizable Shoes: Personalisation is becoming more accessible, with brands offering customisable options where customers can choose the colour, material and even structural elements of their shoes. This trend caters to the growing desire for individuality and self-expression.
– Hybrid Styles: As the lines between formal and informal wear are blurring, hybrid styles that combine elements from different categories are becoming popular. For example, dress shoes with sneaker-like comfort or athletic shoes designed with luxurious materials are expected to appeal to a wider audience.
These trends reflect broad shifts in consumer preferences towards functionality, sustainability and personalisation, setting the stage for a diverse and dynamic footwear market in 2025.
Can you name some Indian and international celebrities who are known for their exceptional taste in footwear?
Here are some Indian and international celebrities who are known for their exceptional taste in footwear:
– Ranveer Singh: – Known for his bold and eclectic fashion choices, Ranveer often wears unique and statement-making footwear. From colourful sneakers to embroidered loafers, he is not afraid to experiment with different styles.
– Amitabh Bachchan: If you take a closer look at his shoes, you’ll notice that he mostly wears embroidered slip-ons with vibrant artwork in various colors such as burgundy, black, navy, and black.
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– Shahrukh Khan: – Shahrukh is often seen wearing stylish sneakers and casual shoes that perfectly complement his modern and urban fashion sense. The Golden Goose sneaker brand is his favorite.
– Pharrell Williams: Pharrell is known for his unique and innovative style, especially in footwear. His collaborations with Adidas, especially the NMD line, have been extremely popular and reflect his visionary fashion sense.
These celebrities are often seen as trendsetters, and their footwear choices inspire many fashion lovers around the world.
Handmade shoes are often considered elegant and sophisticated, yet many people don’t fully understand what makes them different from regular shoes. Can you explain in more detail what makes handmade shoes so special?
Handmade shoes stand out for several reasons, making them the preferred choice for those seeking beauty, sophistication, and quality. Here’s how handmade shoes differ from regular, mass-produced shoes:
– Craftsmanship and attention to detail:
Handmade shoes are carefully crafted by skilled artisans who have honed their techniques for many years, sometimes decades. Every stitch, cut, and finishing is done with precision, ensuring that each pair of shoes is unique and of the highest quality. This level of craftsmanship often results in shoes that are not only beautiful but also durable and comfortable.
– Customization and personalization:
The biggest advantage of handmade shoes is that you can customize the shoes according to your preference. Customers can choose the type of leather, color, sole, and even the stitching method.
– Selected Material:
Handmade shoes typically use higher quality materials than mass-produced shoes. Artisans often select the best leathers, fabrics, and soles, which contribute to the shoes’ longevity and aesthetic appeal. These materials not only enhance the shoes’ comfort but also ensure that it ages beautifully over time.
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– UNIQUE DESIGN & BEAUTY:
Each pair of handmade shoes is often a piece of art, with unique features that reflect the artisan’s style and expertise. This uniqueness means that no two pairs are exactly alike, providing a level of exclusivity that mass-produced shoes cannot match.
– Ethical and sustainable production:
Handmade shoes are typically made in small quantities, which has less of an environmental impact than mass manufacturing. Many artisans also prioritize ethical practices, ensuring that their materials are responsibly sourced and workers are paid a fair wage. This ethical approach appeals to consumers who are conscious of sustainability and social responsibility.
Ranveer Singh’s daring style has created excitement among the people!
– Emotional value:
Owning a pair of handmade shoes often holds sentimental value, as they are not just another item on a shelf, but a carefully crafted piece that can be treasured for years. The personal connection with the artisan and the knowledge that each pair is carefully made further adds to their significance.
Where do you draw inspiration for your designs? Are they influenced by Indian traditions, international styles or a mix of both?
I probably draw inspiration from the blend of Indian traditions and international styles, creating a fusion that reflects rich heritage and modern global influences.
Your tagline, “Happy Feet for All,” suggests a focus on foot health. Does this mean your shoes are designed with comfort and health in mind?
Proudly handmade in India, all our shoes are designed keeping in mind the general audience who mostly demand comfortable wear that they can wear for long periods of time. You will find all our traditional wear shoes with padded insole lining for extra comfort. Also, “Happy Feet for All” means we have something for everyone, all under one roof.
Can you give some tips on choosing the right shoes for different occasions for both men and women?
Choosing the right shoes for different occasions can be challenging, but with a few tips, you can ensure your shoes always look perfect. Here are some guidelines for both men and women:
Weddings
– Juttis and Peshawari: These are a classic choice for occasional wear. Black or dark brown leather Peshawari are ideal for Mehendi, Haldi and weddings.
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– Zardosi Slip-On: These are one of the most popular choices for all types of wedding ceremonies including the main D-day.
– Patent Black Shoes: These are a classic choice for black-tie events, cocktails, engagements, and receptions.
formal
– Oxfords and Brogues: These are the classic choice for formal events. Black or dark brown leather oxfords are ideal for weddings, black-tie events, or important business meetings.
– Leather Slip-ons: Perfect for a business casual setting, loafers are comfortable as well as stylish. Choose classic leather in neutral tones like brown, black, or tan.
– Monk Straps: These add a touch of sophistication to business casual attire. These look good with chinos or tailored trousers.
Informal
– Sneakers: A versatile option, sneakers can range from sporty to sleek depending on the occasion. White or neutral-colored sneakers are good for most casual outings.
– Boat Shoes: These are great for walking around or relaxing in the summer. They go well with shorts, chinos or jeans.
Evenings
– Chelsea Boots: These sleek, ankle-length boots are great for evening events that are less formal but still stylish. They can be worn with jeans or dress pants.
– Suede Loafers: These are a sophisticated yet comfortable option for evening social gatherings. Its texture adds a touch of sophistication.
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beach
– Slipper: These lightweight, airy slippers are perfect for the beach or summer events. They pair well with shorts or light trousers.
– Loafers: Reserved for very informal walks on the beach, loafers should be simple and comfortable.
Travel
– Slip-ons and sneakers: Ideal for airport security and walking, slip-ons and sneakers offer comfort and convenience.
-Vegetarian Slipon: If you need something a little more airy for your travels or business meetings, synthetic leather slip-ons can provide the necessary support.
Ahead
– Prioritize comfort and versatility: Choose shoes that are easy to wear.
– quality over quantity: Buy a few pairs of high-quality shoes that can be worn for a variety of occasions.
Are there any specific checklists or guidelines to consider when buying shoes, especially for those who prioritize comfort?
When buying shoes, especially with comfort in mind, having a checklist can help ensure you make the best choice for your feet. For example, proper fit, comfort in the insole, overall padding/cushioning, and materials used for craftsmanship. Cloth linings inside the shoes should be avoided, as they tend to absorb more moisture and sweat.
What according to you makes any footwear brand stand out? Comfort or Style?
While comfort and style are both important, we balance these elements to also excel in quality, innovation and customer experience. Consumers today want shoes that not only feel good and look good but also match their values and lifestyle. And at Modello Domani we constantly work on these fronts.
