Jean-Michel Casalonga shows how a perfect pair of bespoke shoes is made

A self-proclaimed shoe addict, Casalonga joined the brand as an intern at the young age of 23, eventually becoming the house's youngest maître bottier (master shoemaker) in 2008, when he was just 30

A whisky-coloured façade greets the eye as one enters Berluti’s maiden boutique in India, at the DLF Emporio, Delhi. It’s interesting to see the imaginative use of Venezia, the patinated leather preferred by the Parisian shoe brand (from the LVMH stable of luxury labels), in the décor — from the armchairs and detailing to the walls and floors. On display are the brand’s range of leather goods, bespoke shoes and ready-to-wear pieces — the highlights being the emblematic Alessandro shoes, Un Jour briefcases and Playtime sneakers. One’s attention is drawn to the various prototypes arrayed on the table, as the