Social media outrage makes Prada credit India's Kolhapuri craft for ₹1.2 lakh ‘luxury' sandals
Prada has finally admitted what many online had pointed out days ago, that its ₹1.2 lakh leather sandals, featured in the Spring/Summer 2026 menswear collection, were inspired by India's iconic Kolhapuri chappals.
The acknowledgement came only after heavy backlash on social media, with users accusing the Italian luxury brand of cultural appropriation and calling it a 'shameless cash grab.'
Models at Milan Fashion Week were seen wearing traditional-style footwear, with no credit initially given to the Indian communities that've crafted them for generations.
Social media outrage forces a response from Prada
From fashion bloggers to government officials, everyone questioned how a legacy craft sold for ₹300-₹1500 in Indian markets could be turned into an expensive 'luxury sandal' with no credit. Users slammed Prada for profiting off Indian heritage without acknowledging it. Many said the design, often created by the Chamar community, was being 'stolen in plain sight.'
New Age Colonialism Under the Garb of FashionThe foreign fashion house @Prada has just launched a sandal under its own label that is virtually indistinguishable from our traditional Kolhapuri chappal—one of India's most cherished heritage crafts. By making no mention of its… pic.twitter.com/v9crAnPb00
As the hashtag #KolhapuriChappals trended, posts poured in comparing centuries of Indian craftsmanship with a brand label and a massive price tag.
In a response shared with media outlets, Prada said, 'We acknowledge that sandals inspired by traditional Indian footwear were featured in our Milan show. We are committed to responsible design and open dialogue with local artisan communities.'
Prada is selling products looking like Kolhapuri chappals for over ₹1 lakh. Our artisans make the same by hand for ₹400. They lose, while global brands cash in on our culture. Sad! pic.twitter.com/Cct4vOimKs
The brand confirmed it is in touch with the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce to ensure proper recognition of the heritage design. This comes after strong criticism from the public and government officials urging accountability and respect for India's artisans.
Larger issue: Valuing homegrown heritage
This isn't the first time global fashion houses have been accused of lifting Indian designs without credit. For example, Christian Dior's 2023 Mumbai show was accused of using Indian craftsmanship without credit. The Kolhapuri sandal, which dates back to the 12th century, carries cultural, historical, and social importance.
@Prada You've taken our Kolhapuri footwear, but not even mentioned Kolhapuri chappal. For generations, we've poured our soul into this craft it's not just footwear, it's our identity. Give us the respect we deserve, or stop stealing our art please pic.twitter.com/Ghevd3L7i2
Netizens reminded everyone that such crafts should be protected, not just by law but by pride. As one user put it, 'If you don't value your culture, someone else will, then sell it back to you at 50 times the price.'
For now, Prada may have credited India's artistry, but the larger question remains: When will the world start paying artisans what they truly deserve?
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