Summary
Prada is launching a special line of sandals inspired by traditional Indian Kolhapuri shoes. The sandals will be made in India and be available for sale in 2026 after the company faced backlash for using the design without acknowledging its origins.
Key Facts
- Prada announced it will sell 2,000 pairs of Kolhapuri-inspired sandals.
- These sandals will be made in Maharashtra and Karnataka, India.
- The sale of these sandals will start in February 2026 online and in 40 Prada stores globally.
- Each pair will cost about $930.
- The agreement to make these sandals was signed during the Italy-India Business Forum 2025.
- In June, Prada faced criticism for using a design similar to Kolhapuri sandals without mentioning its Indian origin.
- About 200 Indian artisans will receive training in Italy as part of this initiative.
- The local government will support artisans with finances and specialized training.
