Prada Admits Indian Kolhapuri Sandals Inspired Controversial Design

Prada has conceded that its newly showcased sandals bear a striking resemblance to traditional Indian Kolhapuri chappals, following widespread criticism. The fashion house's initial omission of acknowledging the Indian footwear as inspiration sparked debate about cultural appropriation versus appreciation.

The controversy arose after Prada unveiled its Spring-Summer 2026 men’s collection. Observers noted that the sandals closely mirrored Kolhapuri chappals, handcrafted leather footwear originating from Maharashtra, India. The brand's failure to credit the original design led to accusations of cultural appropriation.

Lalit Gandhi, President of the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, publicly addressed the issue. He emphasized the cultural and artisanal significance of Kolhapuri chappals, which have held a Geographical Indication (GI) tag since 2019, protecting their unique origin and craftsmanship.

In response to the backlash, Lorenzo Bertelli, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at the Prada Group, sent a letter to Gandhi. Bertelli acknowledged that the sandal design was indeed inspired by traditional Indian handcrafted footwear, recognizing its "centuries-old heritage." He clarified that the collection was still in the early design phase and not yet in production. Bertelli also expressed Prada's respect for Indian craftsmanship and a desire to explore future collaborations with local artisans.

While Prada's acknowledgment is a welcome step, the incident underscores the importance of giving credit to the origins of design and supporting traditional crafts. True cultural exchange involves recognizing the source and uplifting the communities that preserve these legacies, rather than simply "borrowing" elements without acknowledgment.

If this episode prompts major brands to actively support traditional crafts, it could signify a positive shift in the fashion industry's approach to cultural inspiration.