After sparking a controversy over the use of Kolhapuri chappals in a collection, Italian luxury fashion brand Prada has admitted that the design was inspired by the Indian handmade footwear. However, Prada said the sandals featured at the men’s 2026 fashion show are still in the design stage and the commercialisation of any of the sandals worn by models on the ramp has not been confirmed.
“We deeply recognise the cultural significance of such Indian craftsmanship,” a Prada representative said in a response to the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (MACCIA). MACCI president Lalit Gandhi said the chamber has written to the fashion house after seeing the visuals in the interest of local artisans and the industry. Gandhi said on Saturday that Kolhapuri chappal is very different and we want our shoes to reach new markets. But it should get the right recognition.
The letter to Prada also demands exploration collaboration and fair compensation to artisans and adherence to ethical fashion practices that respect traditional knowledge and cultural rights. Lorenzo Bertelli, Group Head of Corporate Social Responsibility, Prada, said: “We are committed to initiating dialogue for meaningful exchanges with local Indian artisan communities. As we have done in other collections in the past, to ensure proper identification of their craft.