Prada is launching a line of limited-edition sandals made in India and inspired by the traditional Indian Kolhapuri chappal footwear, less than a year after the Italian luxury group faced criticism for introducing similar models without citing their origins.
Each pair will cost around 750 euros ($881), according to Prada’s website.
The launch comes after the controversy in June 2025, when Prada presented sandals that resembled Indian Kolhapuri slippers at a fashion show in Milan. The models sparked outrage among Indian artisans and politicians, who accused the brand of cultural appropriation.
Prada later acknowledged the influence of ancient Indian styles and said it had begun conversations with artisan groups about possible collaboration.
In December, Prada announced plans to produce 2,000 pairs of the sandals in the Indian states of Maharashtra and Karnataka through agreements with two government entities, combining local craftsmanship with Italian technology.
The sandals will be sold in 40 selected Prada stores around the world and online, the company said in a statement on Monday (27).
Prada also announced a three-year training program for artisans from India’s eight districts traditionally associated with making Kolhapuri sandals. The program will be delivered by two leading Indian design institutes in structured six-month modules, scheduled to begin in May.
“It’s time for traditional Indian crafts to take its rightful place on the world stage,” said Tanu Kashyap, director general of the National Institute of Fashion Technology, which will offer the training program.
Artisans will also have the opportunity to visit the Prada Group Academy in Italy to gain additional technical knowledge.
