At Prada’s Men’s Spring/Summer 2026 showcase in Milan, a familiar Indian element quietly took centre stage. The runway featured sandals strikingly similar to Kolhapuri chappals—handcrafted leather footwear from Maharashtra with a rich legacy stretching back centuries. With their slim silhouette, toe-ring detailing and earthy finish, the design bore a clear resemblance to the traditional Indian chappal.

The show, curated by Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons, explored bold contrasts and themes of rebellion. Yet, while the collection was praised for its style, it drew criticism in India for omitting any mention of the origin of the distinctive footwear.

Online criticism over cultural appropriation

Indian fashion enthusiasts quickly identified the chappals and questioned why their roots were not acknowledged. Social media platforms buzzed with concern, with many users pointing out the frequent pattern of global fashion houses using Indian designs without credit.

One comment noted that Kolhapuri chappals, known for their skilled craftsmanship and deep cultural ties, appeared on the Milan runway without any recognition of their source. Others highlighted the irony of Indian artisans receiving little recognition or compensation, while luxury labels could price similar designs at a premium. Netizens also expressed disbelief as Kolhapuri chappals, known for their modest origins, were priced above ₹1 lakh a pair.

A larger pattern of neglect

The incident reflects a broader trend of Western brands drawing inspiration from Indian styles while bypassing attribution. In the past, items resembling dupattas were labelled as “Scandinavian scarves,” and traditional Indian attire such as sarees was rebranded by fashion media as “gowns.”

The Kolhapuri chappal itself, dating back to the 12th century and historically worn by both farmers and kings, remains a symbol of durable, handmade fashion in India. Its uncredited appearance on an international runway has reignited calls for better recognition and protection of Indian designs in global fashion narratives.