Prada Admits Kolhapuri Chappal Influence After Design Controversy, Eyes Indian Artisan Collaboration

Prada Acknowledges Inspiration from Indian Kolhapuri Sandals After Controversy

Prada has finally recognized that its newly unveiled sandals bear a striking resemblance to traditional Kolhapuri chappals from India, following criticism over the design's origins.

The Italian fashion house recently presented its Spring-Summer 2026 men’s collection, which included sandals that immediately caught the attention of Indian fashion observers. The sandals' design closely mirrored that of Kolhapuri chappals, the distinctive handmade leather footwear originating from Maharashtra. However, Prada initially made no mention of this clear inspiration, simply referring to the footwear as “leather sandals.” This omission sparked considerable disapproval.

Lalit Gandhi, president of the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, publicly addressed the issue. He emphasized that Kolhapuri chappals are more than just ordinary sandals; they represent significant cultural and artisanal heritage. He also noted their protected status with a Geographical Indication (GI) tag since 2019, safeguarding their origin and unique craftsmanship.

Subsequently, Lorenzo Bertelli, head of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) at the Prada Group, contacted Gandhi, acknowledging the "inspiration" behind the controversial sandals. In his letter, Bertelli admitted that the design was indeed influenced by traditional Indian handcrafted footwear, recognizing its "centuries-old heritage." He also clarified that the collection was still in the preliminary design phase, with production and sales yet to commence. Bertelli further expressed Prada's respect for Indian craftsmanship and indicated the company's desire to explore future collaborations with local artisans.

While Prada's acknowledgment is a welcome step, Gandhi's underlying message remains crucial: cultural exchange in fashion requires proper credit and genuine collaboration. It is imperative not only to "borrow" designs but also to acknowledge their origins and support the artisans who have preserved these traditions.