Prada accused of cultural appropriation

Over new collection

Renowned fashion brand Prada has found itself at the center of controversy due to its new collection presented at Milan Men’s Fashion Week. On the runway, leather footwear was showcased that the Indian public quickly identified as traditional «Kolhapuri» sandals – named after the city of Kolhapur.

These sandals are handmade from natural buffalo or goat leather without the use of any metal components. They are characterized by an open toe, thick sole, and intricate embroidery. The thick sole provides excellent cushioning, while the open front allows the foot to breathe. In 2019, the Indian government granted Kolhapuri sandals Geographical Indication (GI) status – certifying their regional origin and marking them as authentic cultural heritage.

Indian artisans and activists pointed out that Prada failed to acknowledge the cultural roots of the design, instead presenting the footwear as a generic leather model. Craftspeople expressed particular frustration over the drastic price difference: while such sandals can be purchased in India for around $12, Prada’s version costs nearly $850.

Later, Prada representatives clarified that the design was inspired by Indian Kolhapuri sandals and updated the description on their official platforms.

Photo: Instagram @prada, depositphotos