Prada Admits Kolhapuri Chappal Influence on Controversial Sandal Design

Prada has finally addressed the controversy surrounding its Spring-Summer 2026 men’s collection, admitting that its "new" sandals were indeed inspired by traditional Kolhapuri chappals from India. The initial oversight sparked criticism for the brand's failure to acknowledge the cultural origins of the footwear.

The issue arose when fashion observers noted the striking resemblance between Prada's sandals and Kolhapuri chappals, a distinctive style of handcrafted leather footwear from Maharashtra, India. The brand's initial description of the sandals as simply "leather sandals" in their show notes drew criticism.

Lalit Gandhi, President of the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture, voiced his concern, emphasizing that Kolhapuri chappals represent more than just footwear. They carry significant cultural and artisanal heritage, further protected by a Geographical Indication (GI) tag since 2019.

Responding to the backlash, Lorenzo Bertelli, Head of CSR at the Prada Group, sent a letter to Gandhi acknowledging the "inspiration" behind the design. He confirmed that the sandals were influenced by traditional Indian handcrafted footwear, recognizing its "centuries-old heritage." Bertelli also clarified that the collection is still in the early stages and not yet in production or for sale.

Prada has expressed its respect for Indian craftsmanship and a desire to explore future collaborations with local artisans.

While Prada's acknowledgment is a welcome step, Gandhi's core message remains crucial: cultural exchange in fashion requires appropriate credit and genuine collaboration. It's not merely about appropriation but about recognizing the source and supporting the artisans who preserve these traditions.

If this incident prompts major brands to actively support traditional crafts instead of merely repackaging them, it could signal a positive shift for the fashion industry.