JAKARTA - Prada will finally release sandals inspired by Kolhapuri sandals from India. The planning for this release was delivered after Prada had a controversy at Milan Fashion Week a few months ago.
At the event, Prada showcased open-weave sandals, which were considered very similar to traditional Kolhapuri sandals from Maharashtra and Karnataka. At that time, Prada only referred to his product as "leather footwear", without mentioning the origin of his design from India, thus triggering criticism and accusations of cultural appropriation.
After receiving criticism, the brand finally admitted that the inspiration for the design of the footbed was indeed sourced from Indian tradition. They then stated that "always celebrate the skills, heritage, and design traditions", and immediately established communication with the Maharashta Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Agryculture.
Then Prada produced 2 thousand pairs of sandals in the states of Maharashta and Karnataka, India, which were based on agreements with two state-backed entities.
English:
"We will combine the original manufacturer's standard capabilities with our manufacturing techniques," said Prada's Head of Corporate Social Responsibility, Lorenzo Bertelli, quoted by the BBC, on Monday, December 15, 2025.
The collection will go on sale in February 2026, online and in 40 Prada stores around the world. A pair of sandals will sell for $939 or around Rp15.6 million.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Social Justice Maharashta, Sanjay Shirsat, has also confirmed the cooperation. The resulting product will be called "Prada Made in India - Inspired by Kolhapuri Sandal", which empowers local artisans.
"Considering the needs and demands of Prada, some artisans will receive special training from Prada and LIDCOM (a state-backed body for the leather industry in Maharashtra). In addition, about 200 Kolhapuri sandal artisans will be trained for three years in Italy," Shirsat concluded.
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