Prada Launches ‘Made in India’ Sandal Collection for €800

In a significant move for both fashion and cultural recognition, Italian luxury brand Prada has announced a collaboration with Indian artisan organizations to launch a limited-edition sandal collection. This line, inspired by the traditional Kolhapuri Chappal, aims to honor the centuries-old craftsmanship and the artisans behind it. The partnership was formalized with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on October 12, 2023, at the Italian Consulate in Mumbai.

The collaboration involves two state-supported agencies: the Sant Rohidas Leather Industries and the Charmakar Development Corporation (LIDCOM) from Maharashtra, along with the Dr Babu Jagjivanram Leather Industries Development Corporation (LIDKAR) of Karnataka. These organizations represent artisan communities across eight districts where the Kolhapuri Chappal is meticulously handcrafted. The Kolhapuri Chappal was awarded a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2019, highlighting its cultural and artisanal importance.

Titled “PRADA Made in India x Inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals,” the initiative plans to produce approximately 2,000 pairs of sandals. A senior executive at Prada confirmed that each pair will retail for around €800 (approximately ₹84,000), contrasting sharply with the more affordable prices of traditional Kolhapuri sandals in India. The collection is set for a global launch in February 2026, available at 40 select Prada stores worldwide and on the brand’s official e-commerce platform.

This collaboration follows criticism directed at Prada earlier this year when the brand showcased a sandal design at its Milan fashion show that bore a striking resemblance to Kolhapuri Chappals, without acknowledging their Indian heritage. This incident ignited widespread allegations of cultural appropriation. The formal partnership is now seen as a corrective measure, promoting appropriate recognition and direct economic benefits for the artisans involved.

Beyond the commercial aspects, the three-year agreement emphasizes long-term objectives, including skill development and the preservation of traditional crafts. Through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, Prada will implement local training programs aimed at enhancing artisan skills while ensuring the authenticity of the GI-tagged craftsmanship is preserved.

Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, describing it as a “truly global collaboration.” He expressed optimism that this international recognition could significantly boost Kolhapuri Chappal exports, projecting them to reach US$1 billion annually. This partnership positions Indian craftsmanship on the global luxury stage, potentially transforming the landscape for traditional artisans.