Essential Shoes and Accessories for Traditional Clothes

Traditional attire holds a special place in our wardrobes, especially during festive seasons, weddings, or cultural celebrations. Whether it’s an elegant sari, a graceful kurta, or a richly embroidered lehenga, traditional outfits often require the perfect finishing touches to truly shine. This is where shoes and accessories come into play, completing your look and adding sophistication, grace, or even a pop of boldness.

In this guide, we’ll explore the essential shoes and accessories that perfectly complement traditional clothes, ensuring that your look is polished from head to toe.

1. The Importance of Shoes in Traditional Attire

Footwear is a crucial part of any outfit, and when it comes to traditional wear, the right shoes can make or break the look. The perfect pair of shoes not only enhances the elegance of your attire but also ensures that you are comfortable throughout the event. Here’s a look at some of the most popular and fitting footwear choices for traditional outfits.

Mojaris and Juttis

Mojaris and juttis are classic, handcrafted shoes that have been worn for centuries in India, and they remain a staple in ethnic fashion today. These flat, slip-on shoes often feature intricate embroidery, beadwork, or mirror work, making them the ideal choice for traditional wear. They pair beautifully with outfits like lehengas, shararas, or even a simple kurta set.

• Why They Work: Mojaris and juttis add a touch of regal sophistication to your outfit while ensuring comfort. Their flat design makes them suitable for long hours of standing and walking, making them perfect for festive or wedding occasions.
• Styling Tip: Choose a jutti with colors that complement your outfit’s embroidery or embellishments to create a cohesive look.

Kolhapuris

Kolhapuri sandals, originating from Maharashtra, are an evergreen favorite in traditional fashion. Known for their durability and simple yet elegant design, these handcrafted sandals are versatile enough to be paired with everything from sarees to salwar kameez.

• Why They Work: Kolhapuris offer a rustic charm and can easily match traditional outfits due to their neutral tones and minimalist design. They provide comfort without compromising on style.
• Styling Tip: Metallic or embellished Kolhapuris can add a modern twist to your traditional outfit, while the classic tan or gold pairs retain a more traditional feel.

Embroidered Flats

Flats with intricate embroidery or embellishments, such as beads, sequins, or zardozi, are ideal for formal events where you need to make an impression. These flats can be found in various designs and colors, offering a blend of traditional craftsmanship with modern appeal.

• Why They Work: Embroidered flats are the perfect combination of style and comfort. They offer the same grandeur as heels without causing discomfort, especially for events that last all day or night.
• Styling Tip: Pair embroidered flats with heavily embroidered outfits to create a harmonious look, or wear them with a simpler outfit to let the shoes stand out.

Heeled Sandals

For those who prefer a bit of height, heeled sandals, particularly in metallic shades like gold or silver, are a great option. They can elevate your look (literally and figuratively) and are particularly suitable for more formal occasions like weddings or receptions.

• Why They Work: Heeled sandals add elegance and are perfect for traditional outfits that require a more formal or glamorous touch.
• Styling Tip: Choose heels that match the metallic accents of your outfit, such as gold with a gold-embroidered saree or silver with a zardozi lehenga.

2. Must-Have Accessories for Traditional Clothes

No traditional outfit is complete without the right accessories. Accessories can transform even the simplest of outfits into something extraordinary. Let’s dive into the essential accessories that can elevate your traditional wear.

Jewelry

Jewelry is often the centerpiece of traditional outfits, and the right pieces can add elegance, sophistication, and a hint of luxury to your ensemble.

• Chandbalis: These crescent-shaped earrings are a timeless addition to any traditional outfit. Their bold, intricate design works beautifully with sarees, lehengas, and anarkalis.
• Jhumkas: Known for their bell-like shape, jhumkas add a playful yet elegant touch to ethnic outfits. From minimal to heavily adorned designs, they pair well with almost any traditional attire.
• Statement Necklaces: Whether it’s a heavy kundan set or a simple string of pearls, a statement necklace can be the focal point of your outfit. It adds grandeur and instantly elevates your look.
• Bangles and Bracelets: Traditional bangles, especially gold or glass ones, are an essential part of Indian wear. Mix and match colors to suit your outfit, or opt for a sleek bracelet if you prefer a more modern touch.
• Anklets: An often-overlooked accessory, anklets (or “payal”) add a subtle, elegant charm to your outfit, especially when paired with traditional shoes like mojaris.

Potli Bags

A potli bag is a traditional, often embroidered or embellished, small pouch that complements traditional attire. These bags are perfect for carrying essentials while adding a touch of royal elegance to your look.

• Why They Work: Potli bags are compact, practical, and come in a wide range of colors and designs. They pair perfectly with heavy outfits like lehengas or sarees, adding to the festive vibe.
• Styling Tip: Choose a potli bag that matches the color palette or embroidery of your outfit for a cohesive look.

Dupattas and Shawls

The dupatta or shawl is a traditional accessory that often accompanies outfits like lehengas, salwar kameez, or sarees. These draped pieces add an element of grace and tradition to any outfit.

• Why They Work: Dupattas and shawls not only add aesthetic value but also serve practical purposes like covering your shoulders or head, depending on the occasion or cultural requirement.
• Styling Tip: Go for a richly embroidered or sequined dupatta to add glamour to a simpler outfit, or opt for a lightweight shawl for added warmth and elegance during winter weddings.

Hair Accessories

Hair accessories are an essential part of traditional fashion, especially during weddings or cultural celebrations. Maang tikkas, embellished hairpins, and floral adornments can all enhance your look.

• Why They Work: Hair accessories complement the elegance of traditional outfits and can make even the simplest hairstyle look regal.
• Styling Tip: A maang tikka or passa looks stunning with an updo or open hair, adding a royal finish to your ensemble.

Conclusion

Shoes and accessories are the unsung heroes of traditional outfits. From the comfort of embroidered flats to the elegance of statement necklaces, these essentials ensure that your look is polished, cohesive, and stylish. By paying attention to the small details like the right footwear or the perfect pair of earrings, you can elevate your traditional attire and make a lasting impression at any event.

Next time you don your favorite traditional outfit, make sure to pair it with these essential shoes and accessories for a flawless, head-to-toe look!