Prada has announced a new limited edition collection of luxury sandals that will be crafted in India, a move aimed at strengthening ties with traditional artisans after the fashion house faced criticism earlier in the year for cultural insensitivity.
The initiative involves collaboration with artisan groups and state supported craft organisations in the Indian states of Maharashtra and Karnataka. Approximately two thousand pairs of sandals inspired by traditional Indian craftsmanship will be produced. The collection is expected to debut globally in February 2026 in selected Prada boutiques and on the brand’s online store, with an anticipated retail price of around eight hundred euros per pair.
The decision follows a wave of criticism that surfaced when a Prada runway presentation featured footwear bearing similarities to the iconic Kolhapuri chappal without clear acknowledgment of its cultural significance. The omission sparked debate among designers, cultural experts and artisan communities about the need for proper credit and recognition of heritage crafts within the global luxury industry.
As part of the response, Prada is launching a three year partnership focused on supporting artisan training programs and preserving traditional skills. The program will include structured workshops in India as well as short term residencies at Prada’s training academy in Italy. The company states that the collaboration aims to create sustainable income opportunities for craftspeople and to encourage younger artisans to continue practicing techniques that have faced pressures from mass production and declining demand.
Prada expanded its presence in India this year with the opening of its first beauty store. However, the company does not yet plan to introduce fashion boutiques or large scale manufacturing facilities in the country, though executives note that future expansion remains under review as India’s luxury market continues to grow.
The new sandal collection reflects a broader industry shift toward culturally respectful design practices and more equitable partnerships with traditional artisan communities worldwide.
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