Prada Acknowledges Kolhapuri Chappal Influence After Design Controversy

Prada has finally recognized the influence of traditional Indian footwear on its new sandal design, following criticism for initially failing to credit the Kolhapuri chappals.

The fashion house's Spring-Summer 2026 men's collection featured sandals that bore a striking resemblance to the iconic, handmade leather footwear from Maharashtra, India. However, Prada's initial show notes only referred to them as "leather sandals," sparking outrage among fashion observers and cultural advocates.

Lalit Gandhi, president of the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, was among the first to voice his concerns. He emphasized that Kolhapuri chappals are not merely sandals; they represent a rich cultural heritage and possess a Geographical Indication (GI) tag since 2019, protecting their unique origin and craftsmanship.

In response to the criticism, Lorenzo Bertelli, head of CSR at the Prada Group, sent a letter to Gandhi acknowledging the "inspiration" behind the sandals. Bertelli admitted that the design was indeed influenced by traditional Indian handcrafted footwear, recognizing its "centuries-old heritage." He also clarified that the collection is still in its early design phase and not yet in production.

Bertelli further expressed Prada's respect for Indian craftsmanship and its desire to explore future collaborations with local artisans.

While Prada's acknowledgment is a welcome step, Gandhi's point remains crucial: cultural exchange in fashion demands proper credit and collaboration. Simply "borrowing" designs is insufficient; recognizing the origins and supporting the artisans who preserve these traditions is essential.

This incident underscores the importance of ethical practices within the fashion industry. If it encourages major brands to genuinely uplift traditional crafts, rather than merely repackaging them, it could signify a positive shift.