Our journey began when we spotted the original pair of Charix tucked away in a shop in old city Istanbul. It was love at first sight for their eye-catching style, and they became an everyday favorite for their comfort. From the city to the seaside and the world in between, Charix became our go-to shoe for every kind of adventure. Friends would invariably ask: can you bring me a pair next time you visit? Well, we got the message! Now we want to share Charix with the world.
Our Story.
What is Charix?
For centuries, skilled craftsmen in Turkey have been handmaking artisanal leather shoes, called charik. Inspired by their minimal, timeless design, we elevated them with modern craftsmanship. We called them Charix.
Reimagined.
As avid travelers, we thought that the perfect pair would combine the shoes' raw aesthetics with better comfort, consistent fit, and lasting quality, without sacrificing any part of either. So we set out to make it.
Upgrades.
We brought in modern tools, capable hands, and an abundance of creativity into our atelier to rebuild the classic version down to every last detail, including: (1) Memory-Foam Insole, (2) Durable, Non-Skid Outsole, (3) Half Sizes, (4) Consistent Fit, (5) Contoured Heel, and (6) Softer, Finer Stitching.
Result.
Trial after trial, we found the perfect harmony: an original modern version that preserves the artisan magic of the traditional footwear and feels like you are walking on air. We are the only brand that offers these classic shoes with the specifications of contemporary high-end footwear.
Big Dream.
We want to spread our love of Charix with people around the world. They are a cooler, more functional alternative to loafers, espadrilles and slippers -- perfect with any look and ready for any adventure. Put on a pair and join our journey as we turn them into the next world classic.
For The Curious
Founding.
Charix was founded in 2015 in Washington DC. Our founder, an Istanbul native, merged the principles of craftsmanship, quality, and innovation to bring you the best of old and new in these one-of-a-kind shoes. He is joined by like-minded, travel-loving friends, who share the love of Charix.
Vision.
We believe in minimalism; it highlights the high-quality of our materials. We believe in streamlined, thoughtful design; it transitions effortlessly through time, place, and occasion. We believe in fewer and better goods that are truly worth creating and owning.
Charix Atelier.
Our shoes are produced at the Charix atelier in Istanbul with the love and care of our artisans. Our atelier is equipped with modern tools, experienced hands, and an abundance of creativity.
Craftspeople.
Materials.
For our materials, we choose top shelf only. We hand-pick the finest natural leathers, which age beautifully over time. We line our shoes with the softest calf-leather - it never smells nor overheats. Our hidden memory foam insoles keep arches unstrained, while our minimalist rubber outsoles provide grip and durability.
The Last.
Price-Point.
We strive to offer the finest shoes at the fairest prices. Our price point was determined based on the feedback of our early customers, not a margin calculation. We bring you the qualities of high-end shoes, without inflated prices.