Prada's Indian Craft Collaboration: Embracing Kolhapuri Chappal Heritage

Prada has signed an MoU with Indian bodies LIDCOM and LIDKAR to source sandals inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals. The project aims to celebrate Indian craftsmanship through a limited-edition collection, combining traditional techniques with contemporary design. This partnership also supports artisan training and skill exchange programs.

Italian luxury fashion giant Prada has taken a significant step to bridge the gap between high-end fashion and traditional Indian craftsmanship by signing a memorandum of understanding with two key Indian organizations, LIDCOM and LIDKAR, to source sandals inspired by the iconic Kolhapuri Chappals.

The agreement, signed on Wednesday at the Consulate General of Italy in Mumbai, outlines the collaboration's framework, implementation, and guidance under the banner 'PRADA Made in India x Inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals'. This initiative aims to highlight Indian craftsmanship through a limited-edition line of sandals, merging traditional techniques with Prada's modern design ethos.

Manufacturing will be rooted in India with local artisans from Maharashtra and Karnataka creating the sandals. This initiative not only honors the heritage of Kolhapuri Chappals but also provides training for artisans, ensuring the continuity of these techniques and creating learning opportunities for younger generations.

(With inputs from agencies.)