Prada breaks silence on row over 'Kolhapuri chappals' featured in 2026 collection
Jun 28, 2025 11:10 AM IST
Italian luxury fashion brand Prada has confirmed that its Spring/Summer 2026 menswear line includes footwear inspired by Kolhapuri chappals. The statement comes amid growing criticism in India over the brand's use of the traditional design without acknowledging its roots. Prada credits Kolhapuri chappals after cultural appropriation row(Representative image/HT Photo)
'Kolhapuri chappals inspiration for footwear featured in our Milan show,' the company said, reported news agency PTI.
The open-toe leather sandals showcased at the Milan Fashion Week closely resemble Kolhapuris — handcrafted leather footwear made by artisans in Maharashtra and Karnataka for generations.
Prada's response follows backlash on social media and concerns raised by Indian officials, who accused the brand of cultural appropriation and failing to credit the legacy and craftsmanship behind the traditional design.
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