Did Prada Copy Kolhapuri Chappals? The Brand Just Sent A Team To Find Out

In the wake of backlash over alleged cultural appropriation, a team from Italian luxury fashion house Prada visited Kolhapur on Tuesday to engage with local artisans and assess the region's iconic handcrafted footwear production. The visit follows accusations that the brand's men's 2026 fashion show featured sandals that closely resembled traditional Kolhapuri chappals.

Responding to the controversy, Prada admitted that the sandals showcased during the show were "inspired" by traditional Indian handmade shoes. In a formal communication to the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, the brand clarified that the product is still in the design stage and has not yet been cleared for commercial production.

Lalit Gandhi, president of the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture, confirmed that a four-member technical team from Prada, including the company's heads of footwear design and two external consultants, visited the Kolhapuri chappal manufacturing hub.

"They observed the production process, toured the cluster, and held discussions with the artisans," Gandhi said. Emphasizing the legacy and skill involved, he added, "Our chappals are handmade and deeply rooted in tradition. The Prada team will submit a report to their corporate headquarters, and depending on its findings, senior Prada officials may visit Kolhapur in the next phase."

The Prada team also explored Kolhapur's retail market and spoke with shopkeepers later that day.

When asked about the potential for collaboration, Gandhi said the visit itself suggested strong intent. "The fact that Prada sent a technical delegation to Kolhapur reflects genuine interest. It might be the first time a Prada team has visited Maharashtra," he said.

He further explained that once the Kolhapuri-inspired design appeared on the runway, the Chamber raised objections and sought acknowledgment of its origins. "They responded via email and accepted that the design was indeed inspired by Kolhapuri chappals," Gandhi stated.