After the recent Kolhapuri chappal debate, global luxury label Prada has once again stirred controversy in India. And this time, over its latest footwear that looks eerily similar to traditional Indian juttis. The internet isn't buying the “original” tag, and social media is calling out the brand for what many see as another round of cultural repackaging without the proper credit.
Prada's 'unconventional' pumps or just heeled juttis?
The spotlight is currently on Prada's newly launched Antiqued Leather Pumps, which are available in various colours and flaunt visible stitching, raw-cut edges, and a pointed-toe silhouette. Described by Prada as "original and unconventional", the shoes bear a striking resemblance to the traditional handcrafted juttis worn across India.
Crafted from calfskin leather, Prada's version adds stilettos to the typically flat ethnic style, but that’s the only visible change. Everything else, from the material to the design finish, seems heavily inspired by the Indian classic.
Social media drags Prada again
Once again, Indian fashion enthusiasts and social media users were quick to react:
One X user wrote, "Prada has done it again. After copying Kolhapuris, they have now taken Rajasthani leather juttis as is and added heels to them."
Another critic commented, "Funny how it’s ‘unconventional’ when it’s Prada, but ‘ethnic’ when it’s us. The jutti walked so this heel could strut. Give credit, not just couture."
A third user expressed, "Prada needs to hire good fashion designers! Stop copying & pasting Indian creative art heritage!"
Prada's Kolhapuri Chappal controversy
This isn't Prada's first backlash over Indian footwear. Earlier this year, at Milan Fashion Week, the label showcased luxury leather sandals that looked similar to Kolhapuri chappals. It is an iconic Indian footwear style that has held Geographical Indication (GI) status since 2019.
With price tags close to Rs 1.2 lakh and no mention of the footwear’s origin, the collection drew sharp criticism for cultural appropriation. Following the backlash, Prada sent a team to Kolhapur to meet artisans and acknowledge the heritage they’d overlooked.
