30 April 2026 |
Prada, along with makers in Maharashtra and Karnataka, have released a limited edition of leather sandals.
Fashion is global, no matter what it says on a designer brand’s biography. From drawing inspiration across disparate cultures to utilizing craftsmen known for their specific skills, your jacket likely traveled thousands of miles and had countless hands on its construction, before it even landed in your closet. No one knows this more than the Prada Group, and they’re working to help uplift and support the communities that continue longstanding traditions. In 2025 they launched their “Made in India x Inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals” project. Like its name implies, it’s an initiative that supports artisans in the Maharashtra and Kamataka regions, who are known to craft traditional sandals. And this week, you’re now able to buy them.
This collaborative initiative marks a new chapter in the Prada Group’s “Made In…” project, which supports global artisanal talent through partnerships with master craftspeople. Developed in collaboration with LIDCOM (Sant Rohidas Leather Industries and Charmakar Development Corporation Ltd) and LIDKAR (Dr. Babu Jagjivan Ram Leather Industries Development Corporation Ltd), these are Indian government organizations that focus on safeguarding, promoting, and developing the country’s leather industry and the heritage of Kolhapuri chappals.
And that’s just the beginning as The Prada Group has also announced an ongoing project to fund training programs dedicated to artisans from the eight districts in India where Kolhapuri chappals are traditionally manufactured. The program will run over three years in six-month modules, involving a total of 180 student artisans aged 18 to 45. It was developed in collaboration with LIDCOM and LIDKAR, and in partnership with leading design institutes such as the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) and the Karnataka Institute of Leather & Fashion Technology (KILT). From product development to market readiness, the courses focus on practical learning, as well as developing design fundamentals and digital skills. At the end of each six-month module, selected participants will have the opportunity to continue their training at the Prada Group Academy in Italy, where they will learn directly from master artisans.
If this sounds incredible and you want to support this initiative, then consider getting yourselves a pair of the sandals. Made from leather, the flat design coupled with the toe ring, reflect years of history and a deep understanding of leatherwork. Find it here.
