Italian fashion brand Prada has openly admitted the cultural roots of a new shoe design following backlash over its similarity to traditional Indian shoes. This recognition arises as discussions intensify in the fashion sector about the need to value non-Western inspirations and honor 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 argued that by marketing the shoes without crediting their origins, Prada had overlooked the cultural and artisanal history behind a design that holds deep significance in South Asian communities. Many emphasized that such practices contribute to a pattern of global fashion houses drawing from non-Western traditions without giving due recognition or compensation to the cultures from which they borrow.
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 approach to the criticism might indicate a move towards more thoughtful interactions with worldwide design customs. The brand recognizes the misstep and has suggested the possibility of working with artisans from the areas that influence their collections. These collaborations—if carried out genuinely—could open opportunities for acknowledgment, financial backing, and the safeguarding of traditional craftsmanship.
Industry analysts highlight that although creativity is inherent in the progression of fashion, the situation in which a design is modified is significant. Acknowledging sources, narrating the complete history, and incorporating the perspectives of individuals whose traditions influence a design are essential to establishing a moral and considerate creation process. Companies that neglect these aspects might distance consumers and sustain persistent imbalances in the allocation of fashion’s cultural influence.
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.
Over the past few years, numerous fashion labels have encountered comparable criticism, leading certain ones to completely revise their creative and marketing approaches. A number of them have begun working hand-in-hand with artisans, whereas others have introduced advisory groups to guarantee cultural awareness. These various measures all indicate a shift towards a more inclusive future for fashion—one that treasures heritage just as much as it does creativity.
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.
