Kolhapuri chappals are open-toe, braided leather sandals that originated in Kolhapur, India, and have since become one of South Asia's most recognisable handmade footwear exports, worn today by fashion buyers from Lahore to Los Angeles. Known for their T-strap braided design, vegetable-tanned leather, and durability, they've moved from regional craft markets onto global fashion runways and street style.
Here's what makes a Kolhapuri chappal authentic, how to style one anywhere in the world, and how to buy a genuine handmade pair online.
What Is a Kolhapuri Chappal?
A Kolhapuri chappal is a flat, open sandal made from vegetable-tanned leather, hand-braided into a T-strap or woven pattern across the top of the foot, with no buckles or laces. The sole and straps are typically stitched entirely by hand, which is why genuine Kolhapuris often take artisans days to complete per pair.
The Origins of the Kolhapuri Chappal
The design dates back centuries to the Kolhapur region, where local leatherworkers developed the braided sandal for durability in a hot climate, using tanning methods passed down through generations. Over time, the style spread across South Asia and was adapted regionally — today's "Kolhapuri-style" chappals sold across Pakistan and India share the same braided leather DNA even where the exact craft lineage differs by region.
How Kolhapuris Are Made
Authentic Kolhapuris are hand-cut and hand-braided from treated leather, then finished with a flat, flexible sole designed to be worn without socks. The open, breathable design and natural leather make them noticeably different from synthetic look-alike sandals mass-produced overseas. You can see this construction on pairs like Zoha and Afreen from our Kolhapuri chappal collection.
How to Style Kolhapuri Chappals
Kolhapuris are one of the most versatile traditional shoes to style: pair them with jeans and a linen shirt for a relaxed weekend look, with a maxi dress for summer travel, or with a kurta and palazzo pants for an easy Eastern outfit. A neutral tan or black pair like Evaara works across almost any wardrobe, which is part of why they've become a global warm-weather staple rather than a strictly regional shoe.
How to Choose the Right Size When Ordering Kolhapuris Online
Because the straps are braided leather rather than stretch fabric, Kolhapuris fit closer to your true foot length than sneakers do. If you're ordering internationally, measure your foot in centimetres against the size chart on the product page rather than converting from your home country's shoe size chart, since regional sizing standards vary and can be a size off in either direction.
Caring for Handmade Kolhapuri Chappals
- Avoid prolonged exposure to rain or standing water, which can damage vegetable-tanned leather.
- Condition the leather occasionally with a leather-safe balm to prevent cracking.
- Store flat rather than folded to preserve the shape of the braided straps.
- Let a new pair break in gradually over a few short wears before a full day out.
Why Shop Kolhapuri Chappals from Saheliyan
We work with artisans who still hand-braid every pair using traditional leatherwork, rather than sourcing mass-produced synthetic look-alikes, and we ship internationally so the craft isn't limited to South Asia. If you're deciding where to start, our best-selling styles are a good first stop, and our khussa collection is worth browsing if you want a closed-toe alternative in the same handmade tradition.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kolhapuri Chappals
Are Kolhapuri chappals comfortable for all-day wear?
Yes, once broken in — the flat sole and open design make them one of the more breathable, comfortable options for warm-weather all-day wear, though leather straps typically need a short break-in period.
Can Kolhapuri chappals be worn with Western outfits?
Yes. They're increasingly styled with jeans, shorts, and summer dresses outside South Asia, not only with traditional wear, thanks to their neutral, minimalist braided design.
What's the difference between a Kolhapuri chappal and a khussa?
A Kolhapuri is an open, braided leather sandal, while a khussa is a closed, embroidered slip-on shoe. Both are handmade South Asian footwear traditions but differ in construction and look.
Do Kolhapuri chappals get more comfortable over time?
Yes, genuine leather Kolhapuris soften and mould to the foot with wear, similar to other handmade leather footwear.
Is it possible to order authentic Kolhapuri chappals internationally?
Yes, they can be shipped to most countries; buyers should check their own country's import duty rules for footwear purchases.
Ready to shop? Browse the full Kolhapuri chappal collection and have a handmade pair shipped to your door.
