Tarun oblum, a maverick footwear designer, believes that the first step to creating pairs of classic shoes is to get the details right. So when he customises a pair of Oxfords or Chelsea Boots for his clients, he sits down with them a few weeks in advance and gets a lowdown on everything — the sole, heels, patchwork and even a monogram of their initials.
Better when bespoke
“The tiniest of the heel, the sole, or maybe even adding a rubber layer, everything matters,” says the alumnus of London School of Fashion. His patrons can come back for free refurbishing throughout their lifetime. These bespoke pairs are handcrafted with Goodyear Welt technique. “This technique is used by independent shoemakers, not brands, because this allows shoes to be serviced again and again,” he says. Also, the calfskin leather used is imported from Argentina.
Mojari matters
And this wedding season, he has introduced a select set of mojaris.“We call it the Falaknuma! I am a Hyderabadi and I want to make sure that my shoes or even small leather goods hark back to something that is quintessentially Hyderabadi,” he shares. Falaknuma is a slip-on, which can be worn with Western formals and sherwani, or dress it down with a pair of denims. There’s a medallion in front of the shoe which adds a bold touch. There’s a medallion in front of the shoe which adds a touch of glamour. But when it comes to customised footwear, why should men have all the fun, we ask Tarun. “I have news for you! In a few weeks, we will be introducing seasonal collections for women,” informs the designer inspired by traditional shoemakers Stefano Bemer from Florence and Hiro Yanagimachi from Japan. Although he veers more towards creating classics for men, the ladies can choose from conceptual pairs, says Tarun.
Rs 12,000 for customised shoes.