Timeless desi flats

Heirloom silhouettes meet intricate detailing and floral patterns — juttis are a perfect alternative to heels this festive season

With J Crew launching what the brand claims to be its most comfortable flats on record, the world clearly needs to slip on a pair of juttis to know what it means to put your best foot forward. Juttis have been a staple in the Indian traditional closet, but have got a new lease of life with brands reworking it in modern ways - like Fizzy Goblet’s sneaker juttis.

While Shilpsutra, by Shilpa Agarwalla, has zari cutdana beadwork on its silk base juttis, artisan label Needledust is known for its ntricate designs using beads and chains. Diana Penty recently rocked the navy beaded Nova with a deep blue ensemble while promoting Lucknow Central .

Founder Shirin Mann Sangha shares details of this year’s more textured designs, including those from the Arpita Mehta collection. “It’s all about the heavy mirror-work and cut beads to really upgrade the

juttis,” she says, like with the edgier ‘Wonderland’

juttis with draping of chains over blue silk. Gunghroos also work on flats, if styled right, according to Sangha, whose designs can even be worn with ripped jeans and a boho-chic shirt.

 

Fizzy Goblet’s collaboration with designer Payal Singhal, aptly christened ‘Fiori Felici’ or ‘happy flowers’, lives up to its name. “ Our work with Payal, who has lovely prints, easily melded with the vintage vibe we wanted to capture,” says founder Laksheeta Govil. Constructed with plush velvet and silk appliqué, it also features pearl-and beadwork detailing. The collection is a favourite with stars like Anushka Sharma, Alia Bhatt and Kalki Koechlin.

 

Needledust has also put out some quirky statements through their dreamy Masakali and Travel Bug creations. In fact, Sangha herself loves to pair the floral ones with a shirt dress and a straw fedora to invoke a holiday feel. The Pink Paradise collection by ShilpSutra gives off the same charm through designs such as the sequined mehendi green Gul Bahar.

The design IQ of the jutti is something brands like Needledust and Fizzy Goblet take quite seriously — and rightly so. According to Sangha, the comfort of the wearer comes first. “In our creations, you’ll notice a lower and wider heel-cap, while we retain the traditional moulds.” With the wedding and festive season here, maybe it’s time to ditch those gold heels and pick a pair of jewel-toned juttis to pair with your festive wear. Perks include no aches and pains on the dance floor.

Needledust and Fizzy Goblet are priced at ₹2,000 onwards. Details: fizzygoblet.com and needledust.com.