Kolhapuri Chappals Catch Prada’s Eye: Italian Luxury Brand Explores Collaboration With Local Artisans
Italian fashion powerhouse Prada sent a delegation of experts to the heart of Maharashtra, spotlighting the artisanal craft of Kolhapuri chappals.
The timeless charm of handcrafted Kolhapuri chappals, known for their intricate artistry and climate-adaptive comfort, has drawn the attention of international luxury brand Prada. On Tuesday, a delegation of technical experts from the Italy-based fashion house arrived in Kolhapur to connect directly with the artisans behind these iconic leather sandals.
The four-member delegation included one of Prada’s directors, a manager, and two consultants. They visited several production sites where Kolhapuri chappals are made, demonstrating the company’s commitment to learning about the heritage craft.
Fashion Meets Craftsmanship
Led by Paolo Tiveron, director of Prada’s men’s technical and production division for footwear, the team included Daniele Contu, a footwear pattern-making manager, along with consultants Andrea and Roberto Pollastrelli. Their journey into Kolhapur’s cottage industry began in Subhash Nagar, a neighborhood known for its skilled shoemakers and legacy of craftsmanship passed down through generations.
There, the team visited the homes and workshops of artisans including Balasaheb Gawali, Shubham Satpute, Sunil Rokade, and Shivaji Mane. From start to finish, they witnessed the meticulous process behind creating each pair — from hand-cutting leather to intricate stitching — and were introduced to specialty designs like the "car-to-carpet" chappal, a foldable slipper discreetly slipped into a pocket and worn during formal occasions.
In a symbolic moment, the Prada team was invited to remove their shoes and try on the chappals themselves — a gesture that underscored respect and admiration for the age-old craft.
A Cultural Reckoning Spurs Collaboration
The brand’s Milan show had stirred controversy among Indian craftsmen and cultural advocates, who criticised what they saw as cultural appropriation. In response, conversations between Prada and the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (MACCIA) were quickly initiated. In a recent video conference, MACCIA proposed a collaborative “Made in India” collection — and Prada agreed.
This isn’t the fashion house’s first foray into artisan partnerships. The brand has previously worked with local craftspeople in countries like Peru, Japan, and Scotland. However, this marks the first time it has directly engaged with Indian artisans in a structured effort to build a sustainable supply chain rooted in authenticity and mutual respect.
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