In a world full of fast fashion and machine-made products, many buyers today are returning to something real, meaningful, and long-lasting. One such traditional product that continues to win hearts across India and abroad is handmade Kolhapuri chappals. Known for their durability, comfort, and cultural value, these chappals are more than just footwear — they are a symbol of Indian craftsmanship.
For buyers who value quality, authenticity, and tradition, handmade Kolhapuri chappals are a smart and stylish choice. Brands like Korakari are helping bring this heritage footwear to modern consumers while preserving the original art form.
What Are Handmade Kolhapuri Chappals?
Handmade Kolhapuri chappals are traditional leather sandals made by skilled artisans mainly in Kolhapur, Maharashtra. These chappals are created using age-old techniques passed down through generations.
Unlike factory-made footwear, each pair is carefully handcrafted. From cutting the leather to stitching and finishing, every step is done by hand. This makes each pair unique, strong, and comfortable.
What makes handmade Kolhapuri chappals special is their:
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Natural leather material
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Strong hand-stitching
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Flat sole design for daily comfort
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Long life even with regular use
Because of this, buyers prefer them for both traditional wear and casual daily use.
Benefits of Wearing Handmade Kolhapuri Chappals
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Comfort: The soft leather feels like a hug for your feet. Open design keeps feet cool.
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Durability: Built to last years with proper care – much better than machine-made options.
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Versatility: Pair handmade Kolhapuri chappals with kurtas, sarees, jeans, or ethnic wear for casual outings, weddings, or daily use.
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Sustainability: Made from natural materials with minimal environmental impact – a great choice in today’s world.
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Cultural Pride: Wearing handmade Kolhapuri chappals supports artisans and celebrates India’s heritage.
The Making Process: Why Handmade Matters
Understanding the making process helps buyers appreciate the true value of handmade Kolhapuri chappals.
Step 1: Selecting Natural Leather
High-quality buffalo or cow leather is chosen and naturally processed without heavy chemicals.
Step 2: Cutting by Hand
Artisans cut leather pieces manually to ensure precision and strength.
Step 3: Traditional Stitching
The parts are stitched using thick cotton threads or leather strips — no machines.
Step 4: Shaping and Finishing
The sole is shaped carefully, polished, and checked for comfort.
This slow and careful process is what separates handmade Kolhapuri chappals from mass-produced sandals.
Korakari: Blending Tradition with Modern Buyer Needs
Korakari is a brand that truly understands both tradition and modern buying behaviour. While staying rooted in authentic craftsmanship, Korakari focuses on quality finishing, better sizing, and modern design preferences.
What buyers love about Korakari:
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100% handmade Kolhapuri chappals
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Authentic leather sourcing
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Improved comfort for daily wear
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Stylish designs without losing tradition
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Trusted craftsmanship from Kolhapur
Korakari ensures that buyers get genuine Kolhapuri footwear, not imitation products often found in the market.
Different Designs and Styles in Handmade Kolhapuri Chappals
Handmade Kolhapuri chappals come in many varieties to suit every taste:
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Classic tan or brown for everyday wear.
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Modern colors like black, red, or Burgundy kolhapuri chappal for women
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Embellished with braids, studs, or pom-poms.
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Men’s styles – sturdy and bold.
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Women’s options – elegant and feminine.
Here are some varied designs that show the creativity in handmade Kolhapuri chappals, With Korakari, you get the best of both – authentic tradition plus fresh, trendy looks.
How to Identify Genuine Handmade Kolhapuri Chappals
Many buyers worry about fake or machine-made products. Here’s how to identify the real ones:
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Slight natural leather smell
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Visible hand stitching
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No foam or rubber sole
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Slight variations (a sign of handmade work)
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Made in Kolhapur or by trusted brands like Korakari
Original handmade Kolhapuri chappals never look overly polished like factory footwear — their beauty lies in simplicity.
Styling Tips for Buyers
One of the biggest advantages of handmade Kolhapuri chappals is styling flexibility.
For Men:
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Pair with kurta–pyjama or dhoti
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Looks great with jeans and cotton shirts
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Ideal for festivals and casual outings
For Women:
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Perfect with sarees and suits
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Looks elegant with long skirts
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Works well with jeans and kurtis
This versatility makes them a practical purchase for buyers.
Price Range and Value for Money
Handmade Kolhapuri chappals are not expensive when compared to branded footwear. Prices usually depend on:
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Type of leather
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Design complexity
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Artisan workmanship
While machine-made sandals may look cheaper, handmade Kolhapuri chappals offer far better value due to durability and comfort.
Buyers often find that one good pair lasts longer than multiple low-quality footwear options.
Growing Demand Among Indian and Global Buyers
The demand for handmade Kolhapuri chappals is increasing not only in India but also internationally. Buyers from the USA, UK, Australia, and the Middle East appreciate Indian handcrafted products.
Reasons for this growing demand include:
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Rising interest in ethnic fashion
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Preference for handmade products
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Awareness of sustainable footwear
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Cultural fashion trends
Brands like Korakari are helping connect traditional artisans with global buyers.
Why Handmade Kolhapuri Chappals Are a Smart Buy
For buyers, purchasing Kolhapuri chappals means:
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Supporting Indian artisans
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Getting premium handmade quality
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Owning footwear with cultural value
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Choosing comfort over fast fashion
In today’s market, where many products are short-lived, investing in handmade footwear is a wise decision.
Care Tips for Long Life
To help buyers maintain their handmade Kolhapuri chappals:
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Avoid water exposure
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Clean with dry cloth
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Use leather conditioner occasionally
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Store in a dry place
With simple care, these chappals age beautifully and become more comfortable over time.
Final Thoughts
Handmade Kolhapuri chappals are not just footwear — they are a living heritage of India. For buyers who value authenticity, durability, and timeless style, they remain one of the best choices available today.
With trusted brands like Korakari, buyers can confidently choose genuine Kolhapuri craftsmanship that blends tradition with modern comfort. Whether for daily use, festive wear, or cultural fashion, handmade Kolhapuri chappals continue to stand strong in both style and substance.
