Italian fashion house Prada has publicly acknowledged the cultural origins of a recent footwear design after facing criticism for overlooking its resemblance to traditional Indian footwear. The acknowledgment comes amid growing conversations within the fashion industry about the importance of crediting non-Western influences and respecting cultural heritage in design.
The controversy began when Prada unveiled a new pair of slip-on shoes that closely resembled the traditional Indian jutti—a handcrafted leather shoe known for its curved toe and intricate embroidery, widely worn across various regions of India. While the luxury label did not initially reference any cultural inspiration, fashion observers and social media users quickly pointed out the striking similarities, sparking accusations of cultural appropriation.
Critics pointed out that in promoting the shoes without acknowledging their roots, Prada failed to honor the cultural and craftsmanship heritage associated with a design profoundly meaningful to South Asian communities. Numerous voices stressed that these actions contribute to a recurring trend where global fashion brands adopt elements from non-Western traditions without adequately recognizing or compensating the cultures they borrow from.
In response to the backlash, Prada released a statement acknowledging that the design drew inspiration from traditional Indian footwear and expressed appreciation for the craftsmanship that influenced the collection. The brand also reiterated its commitment to respecting global cultures and working toward greater inclusivity and awareness in its creative process.
This move by Prada is part of a broader reckoning in the luxury fashion industry, where discussions around cultural representation, appropriation, and inclusivity have taken center stage. Consumers today are increasingly vocal about holding brands accountable—not just for the aesthetic choices they make, but for how those choices engage with and reflect diverse cultural narratives.
Traditional Indian juttis are more than just fashion items; they are a symbol of regional identity and artisanal excellence, with many handcrafted by skilled artisans using methods passed down through generations. Historically, juttis have been worn by both men and women, often for formal occasions, religious events, or everyday wear. Their construction typically involves leather or textile bases, hand embroidery, beadwork, and vibrant colors—all hallmarks of Indian craftsmanship.
In recent years, there has been a growing global appreciation for traditional Indian designs, driven in part by diasporic influence, cultural exchange, and an expanding interest in sustainable fashion practices. However, this growing visibility has also led to concerns about the line between appreciation and appropriation. When global brands adopt such styles without acknowledgment, it not only erases the origin story of these designs but also marginalizes the communities and craftspeople who sustain them.
Prada’s response to the criticism may signal a shift toward more responsible engagement with global design traditions. While acknowledging the oversight, the brand has also hinted at possible collaborations with artisans from the regions that inspire their collections. Such partnerships—if implemented meaningfully—could create pathways for recognition, economic support, and the preservation of traditional craft.
Industry experts note that while inspiration is a natural part of fashion’s evolution, the context in which a design is adapted matters. Giving credit, telling the full story, and including the voices of those whose cultures inform a design are key to creating an ethical and respectful creative process. Brands that fail to do so risk alienating consumers and perpetuating long-standing inequities in how fashion’s cultural capital is distributed.
For Prada, recognizing their actions might mitigate some of the backlash they face, but it also establishes a standard for how international fashion brands should handle cross-cultural design in the future. Shoppers today are more knowledgeable and involved, leading to a greater call for openness, not just in obtaining materials but also in the origin of concepts.
Several other fashion brands have faced similar scrutiny in recent years, prompting some to overhaul their creative and marketing strategies. Some have started collaborating directly with craftspeople, while others have incorporated advisory panels to ensure cultural sensitivity. These steps, though varied, point toward a more inclusive fashion future—one that values origin as much as innovation.
As fashion becomes increasingly global, discussions surrounding ownership, heritage, and recognition grow more complicated—and more crucial. The dialogue goes beyond mere aesthetics, incorporating economic fairness, intellectual rights, and communities’ entitlement to see themselves portrayed precisely and respectfully on a worldwide stage.
By acknowledging the Indian origins of its shoe designs, Prada has made an attempt—reactive as it may be—to align with these shifting values. It is uncertain if this moment will result in a sustained transformation in how the brand interacts with cultural influences, but it signifies a new phase in fashion’s continuous pursuit of increased accountability.
In the end, the future of design depends on teamwork, openness, and mutual respect. As the sector progresses, companies that adopt these values are more prone to create genuine relationships with worldwide audiences and establish legacies founded on more than just aesthetics, but also on cultural authenticity.
