Prada Admits Kolhapuri Chappal Inspiration After Cultural Appropriation Accusations

Prada has finally recognized the inspiration behind its "new" sandals, which closely resemble Kolhapuri chappals, a traditional Indian footwear. The initial oversight sparked criticism, prompting the fashion house to acknowledge the cultural origins of the design.

The controversy arose when Prada showcased its Spring-Summer 2026 men's collection, featuring sandals that bore a striking resemblance to Kolhapuri chappals. These iconic, handmade leather sandals from Maharashtra, India, are known for their cultural significance and artisanal value. However, Prada initially referred to them merely as "leather sandals," omitting any reference to their Indian roots.

Lalit Gandhi, President of the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, voiced his concerns, emphasizing that Kolhapuri chappals are more than just footwear. They represent a rich cultural heritage and possess a Geographical Indication (GI) tag since 2019, protecting their authenticity and origin.

In response to the backlash, Lorenzo Bertelli, head of CSR at the Prada Group, sent a letter to Gandhi acknowledging the influence of traditional Indian handcrafted footwear on the design. Bertelli admitted that the sandals drew "inspiration" from this centuries-old heritage. He also clarified that the collection was still in its early design phase and not yet available for production or sale.

Prada has expressed its respect for Indian craftsmanship and a desire to explore future collaborations with local artisans. While this acknowledgment is a positive step, Gandhi emphasized the importance of proper credit and collaboration in cultural exchange within the fashion industry. It's about recognizing the origin of designs and supporting the artisans who have preserved these traditions.

This incident underscores the need for ethical practices in the fashion industry, where cultural appreciation should be accompanied by proper attribution and support for traditional crafts. If this situation leads to established brands promoting traditional crafts instead of simply rebranding them, it could signify a move in the right direction for the fashion industry.