What are Punjabi Juttis? Everything you need to know

What are Punjabi Juttis?

Punjabi juttis are traditional handcrafted flat shoes originating from the Punjab region of South Asia now spanning parts of India and Pakistan. They are made entirely by hand using genuine leather and are covered in intricate embroidery, mirror work, or thread patterns that reflect centuries of artisan craftsmanship. Juttis are one of the most beloved forms of ethnic footwear in South Asian culture and have become a global fashion staple worn at weddings, festivals, and everyday occasions.

What is the history of Juttis?

Juttis have been worn in the Punjab region for hundreds of years. Originally crafted by skilled cobblers known as mochis, juttis were a symbol of status and artistry, gifted at weddings and worn by royalty. The craft was passed down through generations, with each region of Punjab developing its own distinctive embroidery style and color palette.

Over time, juttis traveled with the South Asian diaspora across the world. Today, they are celebrated as much for their cultural significance as for their beauty, worn with pride by women reconnecting with their heritage and by fashion lovers everywhere who appreciate handmade footwear with a story.

How are Punjabi Juttis made?

Every jutti is handmade by skilled artisans. The process involves:

•       Cutting and shaping genuine leather for the sole and upper

•       Hand-stitching the embroidery, which can take hours or even days per pair

•       Adding embellishments such as mirrors, beads, or thread patterns

•       Finishing and assembling the shoe by hand

No two pairs are ever completely identical. The slight variations from pair to pair are a hallmark of genuine handcraft and not a flaw.

What are Juttis made from?

Traditional juttis are made from genuine leather, which gives the shoe its structure and its ability to mould to the shape of your foot over time. The embroidery thread is typically cotton, silk, or metallic, and the embellishments vary by style, ranging from delicate floral motifs to bold mirror work.

Are Juttis comfortable to wear?

This is one of the most common questions we hear and the honest answer is: it depends on the pair. Traditional juttis are flat and close-fitting, and they can be stiff at first. The leather softens and moulds to your foot over time, but without added cushioning, extended wear on hard floors can be tiring.

That's exactly why House of Estela adds a cushioned insole to every pair. Our juttis are designed to be worn for hours not just for photos. Whether you're at a wedding reception, a Diwali celebration, or a day out, your feet will thank you.

How do I find my Jutti size?

Juttis are traditionally sized to fit snugly they're designed to stretch slightly with wear. Our general recommendation is:

•       If you're between sizes, go up half a size

•       For wider feet, consider going up a full size

•       Our size guide on each product page shows measurements in centimeters; measure your foot length and compare

Still unsure? DM us on Instagram @houseofestela or message us on WhatsApp. We personally help every customer find the right fit.

How do I style Juttis?

Juttis are incredibly versatile. Here are some of the most popular ways to wear them:

•       With a salwar kameez or sharara for a traditional look at weddings and festivals

•       With wide-leg trousers and a flowy blouse for a fusion outfit

•       With jeans and a kurta for a casual, everyday South Asian-inspired look

•       With a floral midi dress for an unexpected and stunning combination

The key is letting the jutti be the statement. Keep the rest of the outfit relatively simple and let the embroidery do the talking.

Where can I buy authentic Punjabi juttis in Australia?

House of Estela is an Australian online store dedicated entirely to handcrafted ethnic footwear, including a wide range of Punjabi juttis for women and children. Every pair is carefully selected for quality craftsmanship, ships anywhere in Australia, and arrives in our signature packaging with a dust bag included.

Browse our full collection at houseofestela.com — and if you have any questions about sizing, styling, or occasion wear, we're always here to help.