Luxury brand Prada acknowledges inspiration from Indian craftsmen and Kolhapuri footwear at their show in Milan after massive online backlash; here's what happened

Luxury brand Prada was under social media scrutiny after the footwear they unveiled at their Spring/Summer 2026 show in Milan was inspired by the Kolhapuri chappals designed by Indian artisans and craftsmen. And the fashion brand failed to give them their due credit. These footwears are primarily designed in the states of Maharashtra and Karnataka.

In their official statement, the brand was quoted saying, “Prada acknowledges that sandals inspired by traditional Indian footwear made in specific districts in Maharashtra and Karnataka, India, were featured in its Men’s 2026 Spring Summer show in Milan.

We are committed to responsible design practices, fostering cultural engagement, and opening a dialogue for a meaningful exchange with local Indian artisan communities as we have done in the past in other collections to ensure the rightful recognition of their craft. We are in contact with the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry &Agriculture on this topic.”

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Netizens react

One said, “This is not called inspiration it’s called rebranding that’s it. The designs used by Prada are not theirs it’s a very old design more than a 1000 yrs old.”

A second said, “What the hell inspired they are kolhapuris and this is violation of our IP.”

What next for Prada?

Sant Rohidas Leather Industries & Charmakar Development Corporation (LIDCOM), which shares geographical indication (GI) certification for Kolhapuri chappals with Karnataka’s LIDKAR, is taking the legal route after the blunder on the brand’s part.