In a move that stunned both fashion critics and meme creators alike, Kolhapuri chappals took centre stage at the Prada Spring/Summer 2026 menswear show in Milan. Designed by Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons, the show featured models wearing breezy shirts, raffia hats, and you guessed it, what looked exactly like the iconic Indian Kolhapuri sandals!
What surprised everyone was the lack of reinvention. These weren’t reimagined versions with logos or redesigns. They were plain, classic Kolhapuris. Desi netizens were quick to claim the sandals. “That’s my grandpa’s chappal!” read one viral comment.
Celebrity stylist Anaita Shroff Adajania echoed the sentiment. Sharing a picture from the show, she wrote, “A pair of good old Kolhapuri chappals.”
Fashion watchdog Diet Sabya chimed in with a sarcastic post. “Now? The Kolhapuri?! Not to be that nagging auntie, but are we ready for a Prada Kolhapuri that’ll cost us £1,000?” they wrote.
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The post also pointed out the irony of Indian craftsmanship being sold under European labels. “India is not the next big trend. India has always been the moment,” the post added.
Users from Kolhapur, Maharashtra, where the chappals originated, also weighed in. “Call it Kolhapuri. It belongs to Kolhapur. Period,” said one.
Another commented, “Let me dust off my chappals and take them for a spin now!”
Kolhapuri chappals are handmade leather sandals known for their durability and flat sole with a toe ring. Recognised with a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2019, these sandals are deeply rooted in Indian artisan history.
Fashion experts say this moment could bring long-overdue recognition to Indian artisans who have crafted Kolhapuris for generations. If credited correctly, this spotlight may open new export opportunities and raise awareness about the rich craftsmanship behind everyday Indian footwear. However, many online users stressed that global fashion houses must acknowledge the roots of such heritage products instead of simply appropriating them.
Now, with Prada’s platform, they’re making waves in global fashion!!
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