Prada Admits Kolhapuri Chappal Influence on Sandal Design After Criticism

Prada Acknowledges Kolhapuri Inspiration for Controversial Sandal Design

Prada has finally addressed the controversy surrounding its recent Spring-Summer 2026 men’s collection, specifically a pair of sandals that bore a striking resemblance to Kolhapuri chappals, traditional Indian handcrafted leather footwear. The initial oversight of failing to acknowledge the origin of the design sparked criticism, prompting a response from the fashion house.

The issue gained traction when observers noted the similarity between Prada's "leather sandals" and the culturally significant Kolhapuri chappals from Maharashtra. Lalit Gandhi, president of the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, voiced his concerns, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the cultural and artisanal heritage associated with Kolhapuri chappals, which have held a Geographical Indication (GI) tag since 2019.

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

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

While Prada's acknowledgement is a welcome step, Gandhi's initial point remains relevant: cultural exchange in fashion must involve proper credit and collaboration. The focus should be on recognizing the origins of designs and supporting the artisans who have preserved these traditions.

The incident serves as a reminder for the fashion industry to prioritize cultural sensitivity and ethical practices, ensuring that traditional crafts are uplifted and supported rather than simply repackaged for commercial gain.