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Prada unveils limited-edition sandals rooted in Indian craftsmanship
Italian luxury house Prada has released a new line of sandals drawing from India's traditional Kolhapuri designs, nearly twelve months after facing accusations of cultural appropriation for similar footwear.
Design and production details
Priced at €750 ($881; £650) per pair, the sandals are handcrafted in India by artisans from Maharashtra and Karnataka, the states where Kolhapuri sandals originated. The collection is available in 40 Prada stores worldwide and online.
The brand describes the line as a fusion of "traditional techniques with contemporary design and premium materials," aiming to create "a dialogue between Indian heritage and modern luxury expression."
Response to past criticism
Last June, Prada faced backlash during a Milan fashion show for presenting toe-loop sandals without acknowledging their Indian inspiration. The company initially labeled them simply as "leather sandals" before later recognizing the design's roots in Kolhapuri craftsmanship.
Artisan training initiative
Alongside the launch, Prada announced a three-year training program for artisans from eight Indian districts linked to Kolhapuri sandal production. Developed in partnership with two Indian design institutes, the program will train 180 artisans in six-month modules.
Some participants may also receive further training at the Prada Group Academy in Italy, according to the company.
"This initiative aims to support artisans by strengthening skills, preserving traditional knowledge, and helping local communities sustain the craft,"
Lorenzo Bertelli, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility, Prada Group
Cultural and economic context
Kolhapuri sandals, named after the city of Kolhapur in Maharashtra, date back to the 12th Century. Made from leather and often dyed with natural materials, they are designed for hot climates. In 2019, the Indian government granted them Geographical Indication status, certifying their regional authenticity.
While traditional Kolhapuri sandals sell for between 500 rupees ($5.29; £3.91) and 1,000 rupees in India, Prada's luxury versions command a significantly higher price.
Tanu Kashyap, Director General of the National Institute of Fashion Technology-one of the collaborating institutions-stated that the program would also help promote traditional Indian crafts in global markets.
Broader industry debate
The launch reignites discussions about the use of traditional designs by international brands. Critics argue that artisans often receive limited recognition and financial returns, despite their craftsmanship being central to such collections.
