THE MALIKO FOOTWEAR CHRONICLES

Let’s be honest, an outfit cannot be complete without the inclusion of footwear. Footwear is just as important as the clothes we wear. They complement the overall outfit. Whether the shoes/sandals are made from leather, raffia, or what have you, they are just as important.

That is footwear for you. Footwear can serve as a culture that is carried on our feet. This is something that Maliko is focusing on. The brand’s identity lies in mixing craftsmanship with modern-day luxury.

Maliko was founded in Lagos in the year 2018. The brand uses each shoe and bag to narrate what they represent. The products Maliko showcases are usually made by artisans. Interestingly, they use their hands to make these sandals and bags. With how Maliko uses their lovely designs to show the world what they are capable of, I am certain the Nigerian sandal and bag industry is in safe hands.

In this article, I’ll be looking at some of Maliko’s designs in their SS22 collection to critique and point out how the brand has used its designs to show modernity.

This first pair of sandals from Maliko’s SS22 Collection looks so nice. The idea of attaching wood to the sole of the shoe is a nice initiative from the designer. When I look at the wooden sole, I see tradition in every way, because truly, it looks really African.

The pink straps give the sandal some level of softness. The backdrop even makes the sandal all the more attractive. In fact, the sandals are looking almost like objects of art, not just footwear.

I think the strength of this particular sandal is in the way it blends tradition with Gen-Z vibes. I really like the wooden attachment.

But then, of course, nothing is exactly perfect. Even though the wooden sole is a nice touch, it may limit comfort, which will now make the sandals only suitable for some occasions, rather than for everyday use. As for the colour pink, though it is attractive, it might not appeal to people who are not fans of the colour.

I recommend that the designers consider using other types of strap colours and sandal sole height. If this is done, the sandals will become versatile.

The second footwear in this collection is a black leather mule. I will be very honest, sandals like this are very sharp. I can wear this to a wedding, naming ceremony, church service, chilling occasion, just name it.

And the beauty about this kind of sandal is that it can be versatile as well. It can go with native attire and casual wear. The upper black leather part is even the icing on the cake. By merely looking at it, you can confirm that it is original. Maliko really tried with this one.

I have some recommendations, though. The designers should consider keeping the lace part simple.

This third footwear is a pair of beige sandals with textured straps. Unlike the other two, this one has a natural look. Natural in the sense that it feels ceremonial. It is also quite simple. There are no attachments or unnecessary miscellaneous additions.

However, I think the fact that it looks too simple is the sandal’s weakness. Without a sharper detail, the sandals may not stand out in a collection that wants to show some level of boldness.

I recommend that the designers just add a small design to make the sandal stand out amongst its peers in this collection.

The last footwear in this collection is very sleek. From the colour to the design to the buckle and sole placement, everything is just on point. The sandal looks like a quality one. It’s the kind of sandal you would come across in the market and not think too much before purchasing. Once you hear, ‘Madam/Oga, come and buy’, you’ll be gingered to do so.

Another thing I noticed is that the sandal gives off a youthful exuberant vibe. I really like the combination of colours. The designers really took their time to do a clean job.

But here is the small wahala. The colour of the sandals might make it a bit difficult to style with certain clothes, which will be a limitation. Looking at the sandal as it is, it looks like one that can and will only go so well with black attire. Other than that, one may look weird.

I recommend that the designers consider playing around with other colours. Don’t just limit the sandals to this colour alone.

With this SS22 Collection, Maliko has shown us that culture and design can go hand in hand. Each sandal represents Africa’s craft traditions.

The collection uses a philosophy of slow fashion and careful detailing. The wooden soles give off the vibes of traditional carpentry, and the woven straps showcase ancestral weaving.

Maliko’s inspiration has shown that it can use confirmed storytelling that will stand the test of time. With these beautiful sandals, the brand has positioned itself as a member of African cultural archives.

Maliko’s approach to footwear branding sets itself apart from global names that have dominated the industry from time to time. Look at Nike, for example; they thrive on performance innovation and mass production. There’s also Christian Louboutin, which has covered its empire with glamour. For Maliko, their focus is on tradition and heritage.

Each sandal was carefully made by hand by designers who know their onions. This can make Maliko go toe to toe with big names like Manolo Blahnik, but with an African narrative that is unique.

Compared to brands like Birkenstock, which like to work with comfort, Maliko deals in storytelling and symbolism. The collection of sandals looks like it can bring about a good experience even as they are worn. They also appeal to the luxury that is modern.

In a global market where many brands compete on volume, speed, or celebrity appeal, Maliko offers something which is more refreshing, and that is authenticity. It is carving out a space where African art can stand shoulder to shoulder with the world’s most respected footwear houses.

Conclusively, Maliko’s collection is a reminder that you can be innovative with your craft. Don’t be stuck. Learn to evolve. As for Maliko, with all that I’ve seen in this collection, I can confidently say that the future of the footwear industry is in safe hands.

Abisola Omolade