A Notch Higher
Shoes and Accessories|April 2019

Dhruv Bhalla believes that it is possible to build a high-quality, affordable footwear brand. “All our shoes are handcrafted in small batches. By producing in small lots we are able to minimize waste and overhang and churn inventory more quickly.

N Bobo Meitei
A Notch Higher

At an early age, Dhruv Bhalla was exposed to entrepreneurship. It was the garment export business his parents started. It also introduced him to higher aspects of fashion or designs, and it made him realize that chic look could only be complete with good shoes. His initial attempt was to paint canvas shoes to bring out beauty as well as fashion, and when he observed his college mates in formal attire at placement interviews without crisp and sharp shoes, he was able to identify the missing gap between the mass-produced low-quality footwear category and the premium segment.

So he started with the pursuit to understand the art of shoemaking. He joined a footwear factory in Agra, and at the same time kept looking for factories where his designs or concepts could be developed. He was sure that it should be premium leather, and the emphasis should be on design and quality.

The search took him further to Kanpur, looking for prospective manufacturers. Finally, it ended in Chennai, where he collaborated with an experienced manufacturer who could instantly translate his dream to reality while embedding all the vital elements he had envisioned. The culmination was the launch of 3DM Lifestyle in 2013 and Dapper Shoes in 2016. The leather footwear brands are synonymous with class, caliber, and affordability. The former brand caters to European countries and global markets, while the latter focuses on the Indian and American markets.

This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

MORE STORIES FROM SHOES AND ACCESSORIESView all
Generative AI Empowering Fashion Retail
Shoes and Accessories

Generative AI Empowering Fashion Retail

In today’s world of rapid technological change, the idea that machines might become smarter than humans has moved from science fiction to a possible reality.

time-read
9 mins  |
May/June 2024
ECCO Steps into India: AIMS TO LAUNCH 50 STORES IN 5 YEARS
Shoes and Accessories

ECCO Steps into India: AIMS TO LAUNCH 50 STORES IN 5 YEARS

From the introduction of Direct Injection Technology to the establishment of production facilities in key regions such as China and Vietnam, ECCO's commitment to innovation has remained unwavering...

time-read
10+ mins  |
May/June 2024
APLF 2024 Show Report
Shoes and Accessories

APLF 2024 Show Report

A Global Reunion of Leather, Material, and Fashion Industries: APLF 2024

time-read
5 mins  |
May/June 2024
BEST FOOT FORWARD: Footwear is the Sole of the Indian Retail Industry
Shoes and Accessories

BEST FOOT FORWARD: Footwear is the Sole of the Indian Retail Industry

As India steps towards becoming a global economic powerhouse, the footwear retail sector is poised for remarkable growth and transformation.

time-read
6 mins  |
May/June 2024
Earthly Elegance-Myaraa
Shoes and Accessories

Earthly Elegance-Myaraa

Cast-offs the foundation of a sustainable luxury brand

time-read
7 mins  |
May/June 2024
From Corporate Leadership to Entrepreneurship: Abhishek Ganguly's Journey to Co-Founding Agilitas
Shoes and Accessories

From Corporate Leadership to Entrepreneurship: Abhishek Ganguly's Journey to Co-Founding Agilitas

Founded with a vision to transform the industry, Agilitas boasts a comprehensive approach, seamlessly integrating cutting-edge manufacturing technologies, robust research and development centres, and visionary product design labs...

time-read
5 mins  |
May/June 2024
CHUPPS Slide into Recovery
Shoes and Accessories

CHUPPS Slide into Recovery

In the dynamic realm of athletic recovery, every stride holds the potential for rejuvenation. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a dedicated enthusiast, the journey to peak performance is as much about restorative care as it is about rigorous training. This is where CHUPPS emerges as a beacon of innovation, reshaping the landscape of sliders with a keen focus on sports recovery.

time-read
2 mins  |
May/June 2024
Stepping Towards Expansion: INC.5
Shoes and Accessories

Stepping Towards Expansion: INC.5

With a network spanning over 220 retail outlets nationwide, Inc.5 is rapidly emerging as the preferred choice for discerning individuals. Marking a significant milestone of 25 years in the industry, the brand has garnered a dedicated following for its premium leather footwear and accessories.

time-read
6 mins  |
May/June 2024
ON THE RADAR
Shoes and Accessories

ON THE RADAR

Here we uncover our sizzling selection of Hot Picks” a handpicked assortment of products that are turning up the heat in the market.

time-read
8 mins  |
May/June 2024
A Resounding Success for the Leather Industry in Bangkok
Shoes and Accessories

A Resounding Success for the Leather Industry in Bangkok

APLF ASEAN 2023 was a game-changer for ASEAN on the global stage, providing a magnificent platform for emerging designers and catering comprehensively to industry needs under one roof.

time-read
4 mins  |
January/February 2024