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 debate was ignited after Prada introduced a new design of slip-on footwear that bore a strong resemblance to the traditional Indian jutti—a handmade leather shoe recognized for its curved tip and detailed embroidery, prevalent in many parts of India. Although the luxury brand did not initially acknowledge any cultural sources, fashion critics and individuals on social media rapidly noted the noticeable likenesses, leading to claims 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.
Classic Indian juttis transcend mere fashion; they stand as a representation of cultural identity and masterful craftsmanship, crafted by talented artisans utilizing time-honored techniques passed down over ages. Traditionally, both men and women have donned juttis for formal ceremonies, spiritual gatherings, or daily use. Their creation generally features leather or textile foundations, intricate hand embroidery, bead detailing, and lively hues—all distinctive elements of Indian artistry.
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 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.
In the case of Prada, the company’s acknowledgment may help ease some of the criticism, but it also sets a precedent for how global fashion houses should approach cross-cultural design going forward. Consumers are now more informed and engaged, and there is increasing demand for transparency not only in sourcing materials but also in sourcing ideas.
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 continues to globalize, the dialogue around ownership, heritage, and recognition becomes more complex—and more essential. The conversation extends beyond aesthetics to include economic justice, intellectual property, and the right of communities to see themselves represented accurately and respectfully on international platforms.
In recognizing the Indian roots of its footwear design, Prada has taken a step—albeit a reactive one—toward aligning with these evolving values. Whether this moment leads to lasting change in how the brand engages with cultural influences remains to be seen, but it marks another chapter in fashion’s ongoing journey toward greater 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.
