Approach
The vision for Tambadi Chambadi was to reimagine the heritage-rich Kolhapuri chappal as a bold statement in the modern streetwear scene. We aimed to fuse raw, traditional craftsmanship with the grit and energy of contemporary urban culture. The design language leaned heavily on deep, powerful tones (like the striking red), minimal yet impactful typography, and evocative imagery that highlights both the artisanal detail and the rebellious attitude of the wearer. Our goal was to celebrate cultural roots while making the product aspirational and style-forward for a younger, fashion-conscious audience.
Challenges
The biggest challenge was balancing authenticity with reinvention. We needed to respect the centuries-old craft of Kolhapuri chappals while presenting them in a way that resonates with today’s streetwear audience without diluting their cultural essence. Another hurdle was communicating this fusion visually—ensuring the traditional textures, leather craftsmanship, and heritage cues were as prominent as the edgy, urban vibe we wanted to infuse.
