- Prada’s new sandal design mirrors traditional Kolhapuri footwear from India.
- Backlash prompted the brand to acknowledge Indian artisanal heritage.
- Dialogue is underway between Prada and Kolhapuri artisans for cultural recognition.
When Prada unveiled its latest braided leather sandals at Milan Fashion Week, sharp-eyed critics quickly noted the striking resemblance to India’s iconic Kolhapuri chappals.
Under pressure, Prada responded. Lorenzo Bertelli, head of corporate social responsibility, acknowledged the Indian roots of the design in a formal letter to the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce.
When Heritage Walks the Runway: Prada’s Tribute to Kolhapuri Roots
India’s handcrafted Kolhapuri sandals date back to the 12th century, often made with locally sourced leather and designed using age-old techniques passed down through generations. They are not just utilitarian footwear, but symbols of cultural identity deeply embedded in regional traditions. With prices starting as low as $12, they contrast sharply with luxury reinterpretations found in global markets.
Prada’s version of the sandal, which may retail at over $800, highlights the persistent disparity between traditional artisan markets and luxury fashion economics. This pricing gap reignited conversations around fair compensation, ethical sourcing, and the commercialization of cultural elements without inclusive benefit-sharing. Critics argue that inspiration without recognition devalues the original creators’ legacy.
However, not all reactions have been negative. Some Kolhapuri artisans view the Prada sandal as a sign that their craft has entered the global spotlight. For them, the moment offers hope that their designs might gain wider recognition and eventually lead to new opportunities, collaborations, or protections such as geographical indications (GI tags).
This incident also spotlights a broader trend in global fashion, where major brands are increasingly drawing from non-Western aesthetics. From Indian embroidery to African prints and Indigenous motifs, cultural borrowing has become a stylistic norm. Yet, without authentic partnerships or acknowledgment, these exchanges often teeter dangerously close to exploitation rather than celebration.
Prada’s response to the sandal controversy marks a pivotal moment for cultural accountability in fashion, one that could lead to more inclusive and respectful design practices worldwide.
“Cultural respect begins with recognition.” – Anon.
This quote encapsulates the core of the Prada sandal debate, emphasizing that crediting origin is not optional—it’s foundational.
