When Prada sent toe ring sandals down the Milan runway in 2025, the internet erupted. Side-by-side comparisons flooded social media. Fashion accounts pointed out what many South Asians already knew: this silhouette wasn't new. It wasn't Italian. It wasn't invented in a design studio.
We're Kolhart. We've been making toe ring sandals since before they had a runway moment. And now that the world is finally paying attention, we thought it was time to talk about how to actually wear them.
What Is a Toe Ring Sandal?
A toe ring sandal — known traditionally as a Kolhapuri chappal is defined by its looped toe strap that holds the big toe, a cross-body strap across the midfoot, and a flat leather sole.
The silhouette is ancient. The craft is living. And right now, it is one of the most searched sandal styles in the world
How to Style Toe Ring Sandals in 2026
1. With Wide-Leg Linen Trousers
This is the easiest and most effortless way to wear a toe ring sandal internationally. The flat sole and open toe elongates the leg. Choose a neutral — ivory, Tan, Nappa brown— and let the sandal be the detail
2. With a Midi Dress or Skirt
The toe ring sandal was born to be worn with flowing fabric. A midi dress in cotton or silk, a wrap skirt, a printed co-ord — the sandal grounds the look without competing with it. This is how women in Karachi, Mumbai, and London wear them on repeat
3. With Tailored Shorts
how our international customers are wearing them — with tailored, high-waisted shorts in neutral tones. The craft sandal elevates what could otherwise read as casual. It's the same logic as wearing a Birkenstock with a blazer, but with more history
4. With Denim
Wide-leg, straight, or barrel-cut denim — all work. The toe ring sandal with denim is the everyday uniform. Simple. Considered. No effort required.
5. For a Wedding or Festive Occasion
This is where the toe ring sandal was originally designed to shine. Paired with a saree, a gharara, a kaftan, or even a structured co-ord for a destination wedding — the handcrafted leather and metallic detail reads as intentional luxury, not ethnic costume
Why Handcrafted Matters
Every Kolhart sandal is made by multigenerational karigar artisans in Karachi. The leather is cut by hand. The stitching is done by hand. The finishing is done by hand. A single pair takes hours to complete.
This is not a factory product with a heritage story bolted on for marketing. The craft is the product. The artisan is the brand.