Prada to launch $930 sandals amid Kolhapuri chappal controversy

Months after facing backlash over the alleged cultural misappropriation of the Kolhapuri chappal, Prada is set to launch a limited-edition sandal collection in India inspired by the traditional footwear, Reuters reported.

The luxury fashion house will price each pair at around USD 930 and plans to produce 2,000 pairs across Maharashtra and Karnataka as part of the initiative. According to Reuters, the collection will blend Italian technology and expertise with local Indian craftsmanship.

The sandals are scheduled to go on sale in February 2026 through 40 Prada stores globally as well as online. The move follows widespread criticism earlier this year, when Prada unveiled a sandal design that closely resembled India’s traditional Kolhapuri chappals. Given the footwear’s deep cultural and regional significance, along with its Geographical Indication (GI) status granted in 2019, the design sparked allegations of cultural appropriation and ethical insensitivity.

Prada’s initial failure to acknowledge the inspiration further fuelled criticism, with artisans and commentators accusing the brand of overlooking the craftsmen behind the centuries-old tradition. Following the backlash, Prada later acknowledged that the design was inspired by traditional Indian handcrafted footwear.

In a separate development, the Prada Group has completed the acquisition of Milan-based fashion rival Versace in a USD 1.375 billion all-cash deal, bringing the brand under the same umbrella as Prada and Miu Miu. The acquisition is expected to support a revival of Versace’s fortunes.

Announcing the completion of the transaction, Prada said in a brief statement: “Prada today announces the successful completion of the acquisition of Versace from Capri Holdings after having received all required regulatory clearances.”