Italian luxury fashion house Prada is under scrutiny after its 2026 menswear collection featured sandals that closely resemble traditional Kolhapuri chappals, a staple of Indian footwear. The design choice has sparked accusations of cultural appropriation, as the brand did not initially credit the Indian artisans or acknowledge the cultural significance of the Kolhapuri design. In response to the backlash, Prada has recognized the inspiration behind their sandals and expressed a commitment to engage with Indian artisans to ensure proper acknowledgment and collaboration. However, LIDCOM, an organization dedicated to promoting and protecting traditional Indian crafts, is contemplating legal action against Prada. They argue that the brand’s use of the design without proper credit could constitute a violation of Geographical Indication (GI) rights, which protect products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation due to that origin. This incident highlights ongoing debates about cultural appropriation in the fashion industry, where global brands often draw inspiration from traditional designs without giving due credit or compensation to the original creators. The potential legal battle could set a precedent for how traditional designs are protected and credited in international fashion markets. As discussions continue, this case underscores the importance of respecting cultural heritage and ensuring that traditional artisans receive recognition and benefits from their contributions to global fashion trends.