The humbleness of Hawaii chappal and the role it plays for every Indian can be ascertained from the words of Indian PM Narendra Modi, “My dream is to see ‘hawai chappal’ wearing citizens fly,” made during launch of UDAN Scheme in 2018.
This simple economical rubber open sandal with a Y-shaped toe, named Flip-flop because of the sound it makes on the ground when worn, still remains embedded and captured in Indian minds as a “chappal”. It went on to become the maximum selling design in the world and is still the maximum consumed footwear category across India for decades.
History
The shape has been in existence for over 6000 years and appears in most cultures under different names, with different toes and materials to anchor the foot to the sandal. From the Japanese Zori, a flat and thonged Japanese sandals made of fabric and rice straw that dates back to the Heian Period (794-1185), to ancient Egypt’s made from Papyrus, a flip flop isn’t a flip flop all over the world.
Wearing them weren’t always a next- to the-big-toe thing. The ancient Greeks had it right and wore the toe strap between their 1st and 2nd toes. But the Romans wore the strap between the 2nd and 3rd toes and the Mesopotamians wore it between the 3rd and 4th toes.
Terminology
This story is from the September 2020 edition of Shoes and Accessories.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the September 2020 edition of Shoes and Accessories.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
A Resounding Success for the Leather Industry in Bangkok
APLF ASEAN 2023 was a game-changer for ASEAN on the global stage, providing a magnificent platform for emerging designers and catering comprehensively to industry needs under one roof.
Deciphering the US Footwear markets dynamics A Comprehensive Analysis
The footwear industry within the United States pulsates with vibrancy and dynamism, uniquely characterized by a fusion of high per capita income, the globe's largest economy, and a longstanding tradition of housing some of the world's premier footwear labels.
SHOETECH-KANPUR:
Unveiling Innovation and Excellence in Footwear Components
Agra beyond the Taj; THE SHOEMAKING LEGACY
Agra, synonymous with the Taj Mahal, a testament to enduring love, has transcended its historical association to emerge as a city with a distinct identity beyond the Taj’s shadow.
ON THE RADAR
Here we uncover our sizzling selection of \"Hot Picks\" - a handpicked assortment of products that are turning up the heat in the market.
BULGARI SHINES IN MUMBAI WITH ITS NEW BOUTIQUE
~A resplendent journey from Rome to Mumbai, experienced through the poetry of architecture and craftsmanship~
El Naturalista
A Footwear Odyssey of Style and Comfort
The Leather Story Timeless appeal meets sustainability
In an exclusive interview with The Leather Story’s Founder Aditi Kapur Chawla, where she shares her insights on the leather accessory market and what drove her to establish a brand in this niche
Expo Riva Schuh & Gardabags Around the World
Voices from Spain One of the Most Important International Markets for the Production and Sale of Footwear and Leather Goods
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) unveils new footwear standards
India is making her mark in the global economy
