Usha Uthup: Rebranding Kanjeevaram into a Fashion Statement that Balances Comfort with Style.
 

The legendary singer, Usha Uthup, known for her powerful voice and vibrant personality, is turning heads with her innovative approach to fashion. In a recent video for Red FM, Uthup revealed how she transitioned from high heels to stylish Kanjeevaram sneakers, combining comfort with her signature traditional look.

For many years, Uthup was famous for wearing high heels with her sarees while performing. The style became an integral part of her image, but the discomfort associated with wearing high heels over time led her to explore alternatives that maintained her elegant image but provided more comfort.

The idea happened over a casual conversation with her daughter, who wanted these totally unique sneakers made from traditional Kanjeevaram sarees. Uthup loved the concept and decided to put it into action. In the viral video, Uthup proudly puts on three pairs of her new Kanjeevaram sneakers, designed by cobblers using the sarees to make these one-of-a-kind shoes.

I come from a middle-class family, and for me, fashion is all about comfort, consistency, and practicality," Uthup shared in the video. She revealed that two cobblers in India expertly turn her Kanjeevaram sarees into sneakers, calling it "magic." Uthup also highlighted the importance of supporting the country's cobblers and even introduced the project to the President of India, hoping to gain recognition for these skilled artisans.

The video became viral within a short period of time and received over 5.26 lakh views. Fans welcomed Uthup's thoughtful and stylish initiative. A fan appreciated, saying "Fantastic, I want these," while others went for her elegance and unique identity. Many of them appreciated her attempt to highlight cobblers and realized that she is a fashion icon with a social purpose.

Her career spans over five decades, in which she has excelled in so many music genres, from indie pop, sufi jazz to Hindi film music and Western pop. Another example of her creativity is her Kanjeevaram sneakers, shown here, demonstrate comfort and style can go together.