US EditionPrada Launches 'Made in India' Kolhapuri Sandals After Cultural Appropriation Backlash
The fully funded program will train 180 artisans over three years and send some participants to Prada Group Academy in Italy.
- On Monday, Prada launched a limited-edition sandal collection inspired by Indian Kolhapuri Chappals, retailing at 750 euros across 40 stores worldwide. The luxury house concurrently established a three-year training program for Indian artisans in partnership with government bodies LIDCOM and LIDKAR.
- The launch follows controversy from June 2025, when Prada showcased sandals resembling centuries-old Indian Kolhapuri Chappals at Milan Fashion Week. Critics accused the brand of cultural appropriation, prompting collaboration with local artisan groups.
- Prada Group partnered with the National Institute of Fashion Technology and the Karnataka Institute of Leather & Fashion Technology to deliver training. Fully funded by sandal sales, the program will reach 180 artisans over three years in structured modules.
- "Education is a fundamental pillar in ensuring that craftsmanship remains a living practice," said Prada Group head of corporate social responsibility Lorenzo Bertelli. Select participants will also receive training at the Prada Group Academy in Italy.
- Applications for the initial 30 seats, equally split between NIFT and KILT, open next month for artisans aged 18 to 45. The initiative aims to bridge traditional craftsmanship with global excellence, ensuring artisans remain competitive and innovative.
20 Articles
20 Articles
Prada launches ‘Made in India’ collection after Kolhapuri design backlash, but netizens are not impressed: ‘Turmeric latte inspired by haldi doodh’
From runway backlash to artisan collaboration: Discover how Prada’s "Made in India" collection is finally honoring the 800-year-old heritage of the traditional Kolhapuri chappal.
Prada turns to India to remake Kolhapuri sandals after cultural appropriation row
Italian luxury brand Prada has announced a limited-edition collection of Kolhapuri-inspired sandals made in India in collaboration with local artisans, following backlash over earlier designs that drew criticism for not crediting the traditional craft
Prada seeks to mend ties with ‘Made in India’ sandals
Prada 1913.F is launching a limited-edition range of Indian-made sandals inspired by traditional Kolhapuri footwear, less than a year after the Italian luxury group faced a backlash for showcasing similar designs without crediting their origins.
The Independent
The Independent (US)Prada launches £650 Indian sandals after being accused of cultural appropriation
The luxury group faced a backlash for showcasing similar designs without crediting their origins
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