Demystifying the Skipper

On field, Virat Kohli is the ferocious captain of the Indian Cricket Team in Jersey no 18. Off field, he is a fashion connoisseur who aims to connect with fans through his brand one8. He has augmented the brand by introducing one8 Select, an all-new formal footwear range for men. In a rare interview; the Indian skipper shares with us his vision for the brand, personal style preferences and the perks of foraying into entrepreneurship.

After venturing into sportswear and casual wear, what encouraged you to start a line of formal footwear?

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One8 essentially is a representation of all the things I believe in and the way of life among other things. Keeping that in mind, the choice to launch one8 Select was an easy one as I have always liked formal attire and accessories. With the experience of the directors and core team, it was easy to bring this project to life.

“one8 is an extension of my personality.”

How involved were you in the designing process? How did you infuse your aesthetic sense into the line?

I have been involved with one8 Select right from its inception. I have given my inputs regularly whether it is regarding the design or the material used or the colour. The one8 Select team has put in their best effort behind designing and developing the products.

What makes One8 Select distinguished from rest of the formal footwear market? What is the USP of the brand, the target audience and the price range?

If you want style and comfort at an affordable price then, one8 select is for you. The range offers unmatchable comfort at affordable pricing. It is designed for people who lead an active lifestyle, and looking for shoes that leave an impression. The range varies from ₹3,999 to ₹11,999 which does justice to both aspects, affordable style and versatility in choice.

One8 Select currently has five different collections. What makes them distinct from each other?

Well, the beauty of classifying it into different collections is that each spells out directly what kind of an environment these shoes work in. The Achiever is for all things corporate, the Wingman is for a casual affair, the Debonair is for gatherings and celebrations, The Superstar is to get a second look guaranteed and the Alpha is for someone who dictates taste rather than follow it.

How many collections will be launched in a year?

We have currently launched 5 collections for Autumn/Winter and are looking at some interesting things lined up for the next year. When the time is right, all will be revealed.

Where are these shoes manufactured?

The shoes are made and manufactured in India itself.

You have teamed up with your brother and brother-in-law for this line. How has the experience been?

It was a very seamless one. My brother and brother-in-law have been in this line of work for a lot many years. So, the exchange of ideas and opinions was a very harmonious process. What helped most was the fact that all the directors are very well versed with my tastes and preferences and the creation of these products was made smooth because of the same.

What was the most surprising aspect about entrepreneurship?

Entrepreneurship helps to build leadership qualities. It teaches you how to be patient and calm. It helps to improve relationships with your team and keep them motivated.

A pair of shoes can make or break an outfit. Do you agree?

I couldn’t agree more. I myself ensure that the shoes I wear take precedence and are in-line with the attire than the other way around.

Style or comfort; your preference?

Both!

What according to you is the perfect shoe?

Stylish as well as comfortable.

You walked the ramp at the launch of One8 Select in Rocky S. How was that like?

To be honest I was a little nervous initially, but with such good support it became fun! Rocky is one of the most revered designers in the country so it was exciting to wear the collection that he curated around our shoes for the show and walk the ramp with it.

Who would you like to see wearing a pair of One8 Select shoes?

Everyone! The shoes are designed and developed for all occasions. The target audience ranges from students to working professionals.

Of late, a lot of cricketers have launched their fashion brands and forayed into entrepreneurship. What’s your take on it?

A fashion brand by any celebrity is the reflection of his/ her personality. It helps us to strengthen the bond with our fans. One8 is an extension of my personality. It helps me connect with my fans on a deeper level, giving them access to an unseen side of my personality.