In a world where fashion often chases trends, there’s a growing movement back to roots — to pieces that mean something, that carry history and craftsmanship within them. Footwear, one of the oldest forms of human expression, has always told stories about culture, identity, and the people who make them. From timeless traditions to modern reinterpretations, some brands are finding ways to bridge both worlds — and BALGA is one of them.
Discover BALGA
Founded in 2019 by Safa Boudokhane, BALGA was born out of a deep love for Tunisian tradition, craftsmanship, and the kind of artistry that lives on through generations. Each pair carries a story, one that blends the strength of masculinity with the elegance of femininity, and always with a touch of heritage that makes them unlike anything else.
Tradition at Its Core
For centuries, balga shoes have been part of Tunisian life. Handmade by local artisans, they’re simple in form yet rich in meaning, crafted with patience and skill. Safa grew up surrounded by this culture of making, but she didn’t just want to preserve it — she wanted to reimagine it. BALGA is her way of turning something traditional into something modern, wearable, and timeless.
Where Contrasts Find Harmony
Every BALGA collection plays with contrasts: soft and strong, delicate and bold, feminine and masculine. It’s a dialogue between two energies that coexist beautifully, much like the artistry of Tunisian crafters themselves. Whether it’s the intricate embroidery or the sturdy hand-built structure of the shoe, BALGA celebrates the harmony of both.
The mission is simple: to make shoes that carry history but feel like today. Every detail, from the chosen materials to the handmade embroidery, is deliberate. These aren’t fast-fashion pieces — they’re artworks you wear. Shoes that make you feel elegant, confident, and connected to something bigger.
The Balga Heel Reborn
For their latest campaign, BALGA introduces a new chapter in its story: the iconic Balga heel, reborn. Encased in delicately engraved copper (nḥās manqūsh), it echoes the intricate beauty of the traditional Tunisian kholkhal, transforming heritage into wearable art. This is a poetic dialogue between past and present, weight and grace, tradition and innovation.
The new Balga heel, shimmering in golden-toned copper, honors Tunisia’s rich jewelry heritage. In the campaign, the model—draped in a black dress and adorned with statement jewelry—echoes the elegance of ancestral kholkhal designs. Set against a vast desert, the shoot captures golden light embracing silhouettes, creating a visual dialogue between minimalism and ornamentation, modernity and memory.
Each year, BALGA unveils a new collection, always different, always surprising. But at its core, the brand stays true to its roots: craftsmanship, heritage, and an unwavering dedication to detail. With BALGA, you don’t just buy shoes — you carry a story with you.
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