Prada Admits Kolhapuri Chappal Inspiration After Backlash Over Sandal Design

Prada Acknowledges Kolhapuri Chappal Inspiration After Controversy

Prada has finally addressed the controversy surrounding its Spring-Summer 2026 men’s collection, specifically a pair of sandals that bore a striking resemblance to Kolhapuri chappals. The initial oversight of failing to acknowledge the Indian origin of the footwear sparked widespread criticism.

The fashion house's "leather sandals" immediately drew attention for their similarity to the iconic, handmade leather footwear from Maharashtra, India. The lack of recognition for the Kolhapuri chappal tradition was not well-received.

Lalit Gandhi, president of the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, was among the first to voice concerns. He emphasized that Kolhapuri chappals are not merely sandals but carry significant cultural and artisanal value. Furthermore, they have held a Geographical Indication (GI) tag since 2019, protecting their origin and authenticity.

In a letter to Gandhi, Lorenzo Bertelli, head of CSR at the Prada Group, acknowledged the "inspiration" behind the design. He admitted the influence of traditional Indian handcrafted footwear, recognizing its "centuries-old heritage." Bertelli also clarified that the collection was still in its early design phase and not yet in production or for sale. He 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 proper credit and fostering genuine collaboration in the fashion industry. It’s crucial to recognize and support the origins of traditional crafts, moving beyond mere "borrowing." Such an approach could lead to meaningful opportunities for big brands to uplift traditional crafts and support artisans, rather than simply repackaging existing designs.