Italian luxury brand Prada will release a limited-edition collection of sandals crafted in India, drawing inspiration from the country’s traditional footwear styles. Each pair will sell for around €800 (approximately ₹75,000), according to Lorenzo Bertelli, Prada’s Marketing Director and Head of Corporate Social Responsibility, in an interview with Reuters.
The initiative follows public criticism over cultural appropriation linked to a previous Prada design resembling Indian traditional sandals. In response, the brand has partnered with local artisans to create the upcoming collection, aiming to highlight Indian craftsmanship through a formal collaboration.
The sandals will be produced in limited quantities, with artisans from select Indian regions involved in design and manufacturing. The collaboration marks a shift in Prada’s approach toward engaging with traditional cultures by ensuring credit and economic participation for local makers.
While detailed launch timelines and participating workshops are yet to be announced, the collection is expected to debut globally through Prada’s boutiques and official online channels in 2026.
Athmaja Biju is the Editor at Abir Pothi. She is a Translator and Writer working on Visual Culture.
