Aida Maralian is the Creative Director of Koshik, a footwear and accessories brand rooted in Armenian cultural heritage. For her, working with culture is not simply a source of inspiration; it is a response to the underrepresentation of Armenia and the ongoing cultural erasure the country faces. She sees fashion as a form of art that can connect people across cultures, moving beyond appropriation towards appreciation.
Koshik draws inspiration from the 5,500-year-old leather shoe, the oldest known in the world, discovered in the Areni cave. By carrying its spirit and reworking its lacing system into a clean, modern silhouette, Koshik brings cultural heritage into a contemporary context.
For shoes production, Koshik has partnered with a family-run factory in Italy, where premium quality and thoughtful craftsmanship are the core values. They work with carefully selected, high-quality materials chosen for their integrity and ability to age beautifully over time.
Areni Flat
Here is the core model, the Areni Flat. Signature lacing defines the design, providing a secure and adjustable fit. Additional laces can be ordered in a range of colours, offering multiple styling options.
The Oldest Shoe in the World.
Here’s Koshik’s inspiration the world’s oldest known leather shoe, discovered in the Areni cave in Armenia.
Handcrafted in Italy
Koshik is handcrafted in an Italian heritage atelier, using supple nappa leather, calf leather and suede sourced from suppliers also trusted by leading luxury houses.
Why Are You Barefoot?
Legend says the Areni Cave reveals its gifts only to those who enter it with a pure heart.
The Koshik fashion film, shortlisted for the Berlin Fashion Film Festival 2025, was filmed in the landscapes of Armenia and inspired by a legend connected to the Areni Cave, home to the world’s oldest known shoe.
Backstage of Production
The prototypes were developed in Marche, Italy. Known for its deep-rooted traditions, Marche preserves generations of craft that reflect Koshik’s values of authenticity and quality.
The Areni Flat Development
The Areni Flat features a complex lacing system, which requires a significant amount of precision and attention during production. Before confirming the final design and launching production, the final sample underwent over three months of wear testing.