Shoes

Choose by how long you will be on your feet

Match the shoe to the hours, not only to the outfit.

• Khussas and flats: for a full day, a long event or heavy walking.
• Sandals and slides: for summer and casual outings.
• Block heels and wedges: stable for several hours, with more support than thin heels.
• Stilettos and heeled sandals: for short formal evenings.

For a wedding, choose a pair you can stand and dance in, and carry a spare flat. Check the heel height in centimetres in the listing, since a small change changes comfort a lot. Our shadi and mehndi pages explain what suits each function.

Getting the size right without trying them on

Shoe sizes differ between brands, so use the chart on each brand's own site. Measure your foot, standing, from the heel to the longest toe, in the evening when feet are slightly larger, and measure both feet.

Check whether half sizes are listed and whether the notes say narrow or wide. If you are between sizes, choose the larger one for closed shoes and new khussas; sandals need a snug heel. Check the sole and heel construction in the photos. SabKapray does not convert between size systems, so rely on the brand's own chart and read its exchange terms before you order.

Khussas and jutti: fit, break-in and care

A new khussa can feel snug before it softens. Wear it at home for short spells first, and add a thin heel grip if the back rubs. Choose the larger size if you are between two, since a tight khussa is hard to stretch evenly.

Check the sole: a thin leather sole suits indoor events, while a thicker flexible sole handles walking better. Embroidered and beaded uppers need dry storage in a cloth bag, away from water and rough items. Peshawari and kolhapuri styles follow the same fit rule. Wipe shoes with a dry cloth after use and stuff them lightly with tissue to keep their shape.

Matching shoes to the outfit

An embroidered or beaded shoe lifts a plain suit, and a simple shoe lets a heavily worked outfit stand out. Match the colour to the outfit or pick a neutral flat in black, nude or tan, which goes with most suits.

Check the metal tone of any buckle or embellishment against your jewelry, and see jewelry and bags to finish the look. For a bride's guests, keep heels low enough to walk on grass or uneven floors.

Boots, sneakers and slippers also appear here

The page follows the shoe word in the title, so listings also include boots, sneakers, loafers and slippers. Check each description for the intended wearer and fit, and look at the sole for grip if you need it for walking or winter.

For winter outfits, boots and closed shoes with a thicker sole pair with the warm fabrics on our winter page. Indoor slippers are not outdoor shoes, so check what the sole is made for.