Turkey: The Craftsmanship Behind Our Kilim Loafers

At NOUÏKKA, we honour the art of traditional shoemaking, combining time-honoured techniques with the beauty of vintage Turkish kilims. Each pair of our handmade kilim loafers is crafted in Istanbul by skilled artisans who have perfected their craft over generations. The process takes two full days, ensuring that every stitch, cut, and detail meets the highest standards of quality and durability.

Our kilims - some up to thirty years old - are sourced from across Turkey, each one telling its own story through intricate weaves and rich, naturally dyed colours. Many of these handwoven rugs have aged gracefully, but when they become too worn or damaged for their original purpose, we give them new life, transforming their artistry into timeless footwear.

Crafting a single pair is a meticulous process. The kilims are carefully selected, then matched by colour, motif, and texture before being hand-cut with precision. Because no two textiles are identical, each pair is truly one of a kind. Our artisans then construct the shoes using traditional techniques, reinforcing every seam with hand-stitching and ensuring that the materials are shaped and bonded for exceptional strength.

Kilim textiles are typically woven from natural wool, a strong and sustainable fibre sourced from local sheep. This wool is renowned for its durability and ability to absorb rich, natural dyes, making every pattern vivid and unique. We pair it with supple leather, allowing our loafers to mould to the wearer’s feet over time, ensuring both flexibility and breathability while maintaining their refined silhouette.

The result is a shoe that embodies the essence of craftsmanship - where heritage meets modern wearability. Slip into a pair of NOUÏKKA kilim loafers and experience the artistry, dedication, and skill woven into every stitch.