Kolhapuri Chappals or Prada Sandals? Milan Fashion Week 2026 Sparks Cultural Appropriation Row

At the grand Prada Spring/Summer 2026 fashion show in Milan, models walked the runway in stylish outfits, but it was not just the clothes that caught people's attention. Many Indian viewers noticed something very familiar, the sandals on display looked exactly like Kolhapuri chappals, the traditional leather footwear from Maharashtra, India.

These Prada sandals had the same tan leather finish, flat sole, and even the iconic toe ring design. But surprisingly, nowhere in the show did Prada mention Kolhapuri chappals or India.

This raised many eyebrows. While some felt proud that a piece of Indian design had reached such a big global stage, others were disappointed and even angry that a famous international brand had used a deeply Indian style without giving any credit.

What Are Kolhapuri Chappals and Why Are They Special?

Kolhapuri chappals are not just regular footwear. They are an important part of India's culture and craft tradition. These sandals have been handmade by local artisans in Maharashtra for over 100 years. Each pair takes several hours to create, using special techniques that have been passed down through generations.

In 2019, Kolhapuri Chappals were awarded a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, which means they are officially recognised as a traditional product from a particular region.

For many Indians, Kolhapuris are not only stylish and durable, but also a symbol of cultural pride. As one Mumbai-based fashion blogger wrote on Instagram, "Kolhapuri chappals are not just footwear; they are a part of our heritage." This shows just how meaningful these chappals are to people in India.

Prada Kolhapuri Chappal Debate: Appreciation or Appropriation?

In today's global fashion world, many brands take inspiration from different cultures. But when a design is clearly inspired by a traditional item and no credit is given, people start to feel it is cultural appropriation rather than appreciation. That is what happened in Prada's case. The sandals were clearly based on Kolhapuri chappals, yet there was no mention of India or the artisans who make them.

This upset many fashion lovers and social media users. One social media influencer posted, "It's okay to take inspiration, but not giving credit is wrong. You cannot just copy something so rooted in culture and call it your own."

Others pointed out that this is not the first time it has happened. From dupatta-style scarves to skirts with embroidery like Indian mirror work, many global brands have used Indian designs without proper recognition.

This kind of situation sparks an important discussion, how can the fashion world become more respectful and fair? Everyone agrees that inspiration can come from anywhere, and Indian fashion deserves to be seen on global runways. But when big brands use Indian styles to make profits without even mentioning their origins, it feels disrespectful not only to the product but also to the people who have preserved the tradition for generations.

Even small things like including a leather toe ring in Prada's collection raised questions. That design is also commonly seen in Kolhapuris, yet again there was no explanation or credit. It may seem like a small detail to some, but for those who understand its meaning, it is a part of their identity.

Milan Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2026 Fashion Show

The Milan Fashion Week Men's S/S 2026 edition is currently underway, showcasing a blend of established and emerging talent across the city. Iconic Italian brands like Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, and Emporio Armani are set to deliver memorable moments. Unfortunately, Giorgio Armani will not make his usual runway appearance due to recent health issues. However, he remains actively involved in the collections.

Among the new faces in Milan this season is Japanese designer Satoshi Kuwata of Setchu. He opened the week with a fishing-themed collection following his debut at Pitti Uomo. London-based Saul Nash is also returning to Milan, known for his fluid designs inspired by dance. This season sees a notable British presence with Paul Smith and Dunhill joining the lineup.