Prada Collaborates with Local Artisans to Launch 'Made in India' Kolhapuri Chappal Capsule Collection

Prada plans to launch a limited edition of 'Made in India' leather sandals inspired by local artisans in Maharashtra. The collection will comply with GI-tag requirements and highlight Maharashtra's cultural heritage globally. Prada's representatives met with Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (MACCIA) to discuss cultural recognition, ethical sourcing, and collaboration with artisans. The partnership aims to promote respect for traditional communities and become a model for global fashion.

Italian luxury fashion house Prada has announced plans to launch a limited edition of 'Made in India' leather sandals inspired by local artisans in Maharashtra. The collection will comply with geographical indication (GI) tag requirements and aim to highlight Maharashtra's cultural heritage globally. Prada's representatives met with the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (MACCIA) to discuss cultural recognition, ethical sourcing, and collaboration with artisans [1].

The meeting, held via video conferencing on July 11, 2025, saw Prada's senior officials, including Chief Business Development Officer Roberto Massardi, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility Lorenzo Bertelli, and Global Director of Communications Christopher Bugg, discuss the potential partnership with MACCIA [1]. Prada expressed a clear interest in working with local artisans and aligning with fair trade principles and cultural storytelling through design [1].

The collaboration will not only focus on Kolhapuri chappals but also explore other heritage crafts from Maharashtra, such as Paithani weaving, Himroo textiles, Bichwas/Payal (anklets), and regional embroidery work, for potential integration into future collections [1]. Prada has also agreed to set up an excellence lab in Maharashtra to facilitate the sourcing and access of local wares to premium markets globally [1].

The partnership comes after Prada faced criticism for showcasing Kolhapuri chappal-inspired sandals at Milan Men's Fashion Week without proper attribution to the artisans [2]. In response to the backlash, Prada acknowledged the Indian roots of the design and agreed to explore collaborations with Indian artisanal footwear makers [2].

Prada's decision to comply with GI-tag requirements and acknowledge the contributions of local artisans is a significant step towards respectful collaboration between global fashion and traditional communities. This partnership aims to promote cultural recognition and become a model for ethical and responsible business practices in the fashion industry [1].

References:
[1] https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/maharashtra/kolhapuri-chappal-row-prada-to-launch-capsule-collection-of-made-in-india-sandals-with-local-artisans-in-maharashtra/article69805084.ece
[2] https://www.dw.com/en/prada-to-partner-with-indian-artisans-after-sandal-backlash/a-73249210