A Sole Statement

Tarun Oblum's eponymous Hyderabad atelier is redefining shoemaking with global materials, Indian craftsmanship, and a slow, meaningful approach to luxury.

- BY BAYAR JAIN

WHEN TARUN OBLUM began his footwear label, he wanted to spotlight crafts through his lens. "I was put off by designing someone else's concept and following industry trends," he says, talking about his early days at the London College of Fashion. "I wanted to start doing something that was entirely my creative direction."

That direction became Oblum Shoes, a Hyderabad-based atelier. Every pair is hand-welted, with around 150 steps involved in its construction. "We've been practising and refining the same process repeatedly every day," he says. "Every day is R&D for us."

Design, however, does not begin with sketches; it starts with the choice of raw materials. "We're more material-driven and craft-driven," he explains. "We try to infuse a lot of fabrics into our work."

The workshop offers two key lines: Oblum Classics, a refined take on timeless silhouettes; and Oblum Originals, a contemporary collection. They also collaborate with regional artisans to create embroidered mojaris and handwoven detailing.