When Luxury Brands Borrow Our Heritage: Is Prada's Kolhapuri-Inspired Sandal a Blessing or a Blunder?

Isabella Carter
Jul 1
2 min read

In the ever-evolving world of fashion, inspiration often knows no borders. But what happens when a global luxury brand draws from centuries-old Indian craftsmanship without acknowledgment? The recent buzz around Prada's Kolhapuri-inspired sandals has reignited an ongoing debate: is it cultural appreciation or cultural appropriation?

The Root of the Controversy

In June 2025, Prada launched a new line of sandals eerily similar to the iconic Kolhapuri chappals—a traditional handcrafted Indian slipper with a GI (Geographical Indication) tag. While the design struck a chord with the fashion-forward, it also struck a nerve in the Indian artisan community. Critics argue that Prada failed to credit the Indian heritage that birthed the design, turning centuries of culture into a luxury commodity.

What Are Kolhapuri Chappals?

Originating from Maharashtra, Kolhapuri chappals are handmade leather sandals known for their durability, intricate designs, and cultural significance. With origins tracing back over 800 years, these shoes are more than just footwear—they're a symbol of Indian craftsmanship, sustainable fashion, and regional identity. In fact, they hold a GI tag, legally protecting their authenticity.

Inspiration or Exploitation?

This isn’t the first time a luxury fashion brand has sparked controversy over using traditional ethnic motifs. The Prada Kolhapuri sandal controversy calls into question the fashion industry's pattern of borrowing without giving back. While fashion thrives on inspiration, there’s a thin line between global exposure and cultural exploitation.

In the absence of any credit or collaboration with Indian artisans, many believe Prada's move leans closer to cultural appropriation in fashion. It risks diluting the historical and cultural context of Indian traditional footwear for mere aesthetic appeal.

The Flip Side: A Hidden Opportunity?

Some optimists argue that Prada's move could spark renewed interest in Kolhapuri chappals, especially among global fashion consumers. With the right strategy, this moment can be transformed into an opportunity for Indian artisans to reclaim the narrative and spotlight their work on the international stage. Fashion influencers, local brands, and ethical fashion advocates can leverage the attention to amplify authentic, GI-tagged Indian crafts.

What Should Brands Do Differently?

To avoid backlash, luxury brands must take the high road:

Acknowledge source cultures explicitly in their campaigns
Collaborate with local artisans, giving them visibility and fair compensation
Support Make in India and Swadeshi 2.0 movements by building global partnerships with Indian creators

The Final Word

So, is Prada's Kolhapuri-inspired sandal a blessing or a blunder? The answer depends on what happens next. If the incident paves the way for increased respect, recognition, and revenue for Indian craftsmen, perhaps it's a blessing in disguise. But if history repeats itself, and traditions continue to be mined without credit, it remains a glaring blunder.

Fashion can be a bridge between cultures—but only if walked on with integrity.