Prada accused of cultural appropriation after copying India's Kolhapuri sandals
ALBAWABA - Prada, an Italian luxury fashion house, is under fire and accused of cultural appropriation after revealing its latest collections of sandals at Milan Fashion Week.
The story began once Prada models took over the red carpet at Milan Fashion Week last week, wearing open-toe leather sandals that are part of the Indian culture; however, the Italian brand failed to mention the sandals' origin, and it only labelled them as "leather sandals".
Kolhapuri sandals are an Indian ethnic footwear, and India's Harish Kurade, whose family has been producing those types of sandals for over 100 years, said that despite the Prada move, he is happy.
India accuses Prada of cultural appropriation over sandalsOpen-toe Prada footwear showcased at Milan Men's Fashion Week was described as "leather sandals."
But those flat leather sandals sparked controversy among Indians, who noted that the design had been stolen from… pic.twitter.com/ZfDHtOjJz3 — DW Asia (@dw_hotspotasia) July 2, 2025
"They [Prada] stole and replicated our crafty work, but we are really happy," said Kurade, according to Al Jazeera. He added: "Today, the world's eyes are on our Kolhapuri 'chappals' [Hindi for sandals]."
It is worth mentioning that the sandal is named after India's Kolhapur city in Maharashtra state. Did Prada apologize?
PRADA is selling Kolhapuri chappals for ₹1.2 lakh — a design stolen from the Chamar community of India, who've handcrafted them for generations. No credit. No acknowledgment. Just pure cultural theft dressed in luxury branding. Shameful. #CulturalTheft #Kolhapuri pic.twitter.com/l3ITZlGSEG — The Dalit Voice (@ambedkariteIND) June 25, 2025
Following the massive backlash, the Italian brand "Prada" made a clear statement that its new sandal designs "are inspired by traditional Indian handcrafted footwear, with a centuries-old heritage".
Prada made an official statement to India's Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce to clarify that the new sandals it showcased at the Spring/Summer 2026 menswear collection are inspired by the Indian "Kolhapuri sandals".
© 2000 - 2025 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Jordan News
23-07-2025
- Jordan News
'Summer 2025': Colorful, Bold Sneakers Are Your Style Companion - Jordan News
When British singer Harry Styles stepped out on the streets of London this summer wearing a bold yellow nylon sneaker from Prada, he made a daring fashion statement. His look proved that mixing contrasting colors—like red and yellow—can be refreshing and visually appealing, adding a touch of confidence and creativity to any outfit. اضافة اعلان While Summer 2025 embraces a palette of calm and comforting hues—like buttery yellow, chocolate brown, and icy blue, as seen on fashion runways—must our footwear remain tied to that soft serenity? The answer is no. This summer, it's time to break the mold with bold, colorful sneakers in unusual and unexpected shades—footwear that will undoubtedly catch the eye and inject energy into even the simplest outfit. So why not add a splash of the unexpected to your summer look with a sneaker that's unique and vibrant? Goodbye Repetition, Hello Individuality If your wardrobe leans toward minimalism and quiet tones, a colorful sneaker can become your standout 'signature' piece—adding an element of surprise to your look. The concept is simple: balance. If your outfit is monochrome or neutral, let your shoes break the silence with a burst of playful color. Imagine neon green, lemon yellow, or a sneaker in clashing colors—doesn't that instantly feel more dynamic? That's exactly what this fashion wave encourages: a sneaker that tells the world you've got a fun, bold personality—even if the rest of your look is subtle. Bad Bunny's Touch & Bella Hadid's Flair Latin pop star Bad Bunny embraced this trend during an NBA playoff game. He wore a bold striped yellow sneaker from his Adidas collaboration that drew attention despite the rest of his all-black, leather-jacketed outfit. Proof that the right sneaker can 'revive' any look. Bella Hadid, too, paired a sporty tee with denim shorts and a red-and-yellow sneaker, proving that bold colors aren't just for formal wear—they're perfect for vibrant summer days. She previously rocked a casual outfit with yellow velvet Nike sneakers, reinforcing her status as a daring style icon. Even If You Love Classic Elegance If you prefer timeless, muted tones, this trend doesn't demand a style overhaul. It only takes a small risk with minimal cost: one colorful sneaker. A single standout piece can elevate your entire look without compromising your refined aesthetic. Break the Mold and Stand Out Colorful sneakers have become a summer 2025 staple—not just for their bold hues but for the energy and confidence they radiate. They pair effortlessly with dresses, suits, jeans, shorts, and everyday casual wear. If you're looking for an easy way to upgrade your outfit without too much effort—start with your feet. So, set aside those classic heels and transparent flats. This summer, the non-traditional sneaker is your go-to piece to express yourself with confidence. Because fashion isn't just about harmony—it's about fun and individuality.
Al Bawaba
21-07-2025
- Al Bawaba
Armani/Amal Unveils a Gastronomic Journey to the Coasts of South India with a Specially Curated Three-Course Dinner
Armani/Amal, the celebrated Indian fine-dining destination nestled within the iconic Armani Hotel Dubai, Burj Khalifa, invites guests on a sensorial journey to the southern coasts of India. Discover the vibrant gastronomy of South Indian cuisine with a specially curated three-course set menu, available at AED 400 per the refined elegance of Armani/Amal, framed by the glittering skyline of Downtown Dubai, guests are welcomed into a world of heritage and haute cuisine. Meticulously crafted by Chef Rohit and his talented team of chefs, the set menu pays homage to the authentic flavours of southern India, brought to life with premium ingredients and time-honoured begin their culinary voyage with a selection of expertly curated starters, including Baby Corn Bezule (crispy baby corn coated with ginger, curry leaf and chilli), Chemmeen Pollichathu (pan-seared prawn marinated with onion, tomato, curry leaf and mustard), Meen Karivepillai (coconut, curry leaf, ginger and green chilli-infused chargrilled sea bream), and Chicken 65 (chicken thigh cubes, chilli and rice flour crust, Malabar paratha).The main course features a soul-satisfying array of regional delicacies like Kori Gassi (Mangalorean-style chicken curry with coconut, coriander and dry chilli), Lamb Pepper Fry (lamb pepper masala, coconut chutney, dosa), Andhra Fish Curry (sea bass fillet poached in raw mango coastal-style curry), Broccolini & Asparagus Poriyal (stir-fried broccolini, asparagus and cashew nuts with fresh coconut), and Sambhar (South Indian lentil stew with vegetables, tamarind and dry spices).The journey concludes on a sweet and wholesome note with Adapradam (traditional rice pudding sweetened with jaggery and finished with coconut and cashews), a simple yet irresistibly comforting you're gathering with friends or marking a special occasion, this thoughtfully curated menu at Armani/Amal promises a delicious journey through the southern coasts of India, served with warmth, soul, and signature Armani elegance right in the heart of Indian Set Menu OverviewTime: 6:30pm – 11pm Location: Armani/Amal, Third Floor of Armani Hotel Dubai, Burj KhalifaOffering: Three-course dinnerPrice: AED 400 per person For booking and more information, please visit or call +971 4 888 3010.
Al Bawaba
02-07-2025
- Al Bawaba
Prada accused of cultural appropriation after copying India's Kolhapuri sandals
Published July 2nd, 2025 - 09:01 GMT ALBAWABA - Prada, an Italian luxury fashion house, is under fire and accused of cultural appropriation after revealing its latest collections of sandals at Milan Fashion Week. The story began once Prada models took over the red carpet at Milan Fashion Week last week, wearing open-toe leather sandals that are part of the Indian culture; however, the Italian brand failed to mention the sandals' origin, and it only labelled them as "leather sandals". Kolhapuri sandals are an Indian ethnic footwear, and India's Harish Kurade, whose family has been producing those types of sandals for over 100 years, said that despite the Prada move, he is happy. India accuses Prada of cultural appropriation over sandalsOpen-toe Prada footwear showcased at Milan Men's Fashion Week was described as "leather sandals." But those flat leather sandals sparked controversy among Indians, who noted that the design had been stolen from… — DW Asia (@dw_hotspotasia) July 2, 2025 "They [Prada] stole and replicated our crafty work, but we are really happy," said Kurade, according to Al Jazeera. He added: "Today, the world's eyes are on our Kolhapuri 'chappals' [Hindi for sandals]." It is worth mentioning that the sandal is named after India's Kolhapur city in Maharashtra state. Did Prada apologize? PRADA is selling Kolhapuri chappals for ₹1.2 lakh — a design stolen from the Chamar community of India, who've handcrafted them for generations. No credit. No acknowledgment. Just pure cultural theft dressed in luxury branding. Shameful. #CulturalTheft #Kolhapuri — The Dalit Voice (@ambedkariteIND) June 25, 2025 Following the massive backlash, the Italian brand "Prada" made a clear statement that its new sandal designs "are inspired by traditional Indian handcrafted footwear, with a centuries-old heritage". Prada made an official statement to India's Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce to clarify that the new sandals it showcased at the Spring/Summer 2026 menswear collection are inspired by the Indian "Kolhapuri sandals". © 2000 - 2025 Al Bawaba (
