When discussing Japanese fashion, it’s impossible to ignore the tabi—those iconic shoes with a unique design, recognized by the separation between the big toe and the others. Today, tabi are no longer just a cultural heritage of Japan: they have been reinterpreted and reinvented by contemporary fashion to become a symbol of avant-garde style.

But where do they come from? How have they evolved over the centuries? Let’s explore the captivating history of tabi.

The Origins of Tabi: Japan, 15th Century

The first tabi appeared in the 15th century during the Muromachi period in Japan. Originally, tabi were thick cotton socks designed to be worn indoors with traditional sandals such as zōri or geta. Their distinctive shape, which separates the big toe from the others, allowed the straps of the sandals to stay securely in place.

The word "tabi" literally translates to "traveling sock," reflecting the significance of walking in ancient Japanese culture.

At this time, tabi were primarily worn by the upper classes: samurai, nobles, and wealthy merchants. Over time, they became more accessible and were adopted by the general population.

The Evolution: From Fabric to Reinforced Soles

During the Edo period (17th-19th centuries), artisans began crafting tabi from leather or with reinforced soles to be worn outdoors, particularly by laborers, farmers, and workers in the rice fields.

These new models, known as jika-tabi ("ground tabi"), were durable, flexible, and designed to withstand long working days. Their practical nature led to their adoption by laborers and even Japanese soldiers during World War II.

Even today, in Japan, some workers continue to wear jika-tabi due to their slip-resistant properties and comfort.

Tabi in Modern Fashion: From Craftsmanship to the Runway

The true turning point for tabi in global fashion came in 1988, when Belgian designer Martin Margiela unveiled his famous Tabi Boot in his debut collection. Drawing inspiration from traditional tabi, Margiela designed a high white leather boot with the iconic toe separation.

The Tabi Boot shocked, disturbed, and intrigued the fashion world, quickly gaining cult status among avant-garde circles. Since then, tabi shoes have been reimagined in a variety of forms, including boots, ballet flats, sneakers, and even luxury sandals.

Thus, the tabi has evolved from:

• Tradition to avant-garde

• A functional sock to a highly coveted fashion object

Conclusion: More Than Just a Shoe, an Icon

Tabi are far more than just a fashion accessory; they tell the story of tradition, evolution, and avant-garde expression. Whether chosen for their historical heritage or for their modern style, tabi will undoubtedly continue to make an impact and grace the runways for years to come.

Explore our exclusive collection inspired by Japan and write your own chapter in the legendary history of these iconic shoes.