What is Prada's new collaboration with India?

Prada is producing a limited-edition collection of sandals inspired by traditional Indian footwear in collaboration with Indian artisans.

When will Prada's India-inspired sandal collection be released?

The collection is scheduled to go on sale in February 2026.

How will Prada work with Indian artisans?

Prada will partner with state-backed bodies to train local artisans and integrate their craftsmanship into the luxury sandal line.

Home / Business and Economy / Prada Turns Cultural Clash into Artisanal Collab

Prada Turns Cultural Clash into Artisanal Collab

11 Dec, 2025

•

Summary

Prada will release 2,000 pairs of India-inspired sandals.
The collection blends Indian craftsmanship with Italian technology.
A three-year training program will support local artisans.

Prada Turns Cultural Clash into Artisanal Collab

Prada is set to release a limited-edition collection of sandals, drawing inspiration from India's traditional footwear. This move transforms a previous controversy over cultural appropriation into a significant collaboration with Indian artisans, merging local craftsmanship with Italian design and technology. The collection will feature 2,000 pairs produced in the regions of Maharashtra and Karnataka.

The luxury group has partnered with two state-backed bodies, LIDCOM and LIDKAR, to develop this collection. A three-year agreement will establish training programs in India and offer artisans opportunities to train at Prada's Academy in Italy. This initiative aims to support the artisans who craft the traditional 'chappals,' a heritage threatened by declining demand and imitation.

Set to launch in February 2026, the collection will be available in 40 Prada stores worldwide and online. Prada's senior executive, Lorenzo Bertelli, expressed a desire to increase awareness for these artisanal chappals, emphasizing fair remuneration for artisans and considering future store openings in India, a market poised for significant growth.