Prada’s Sandal Scandal Sparks Revival of Indian Heritage Footwear, Priyanka Chopra Brings Glam to Wimbledon
Today’s fashion and luxury trends spotlight cross-cultural collaborations, heritage-inspired designs, and celebrity influence at major events. Italian luxury giant Prada is caught up in controversy surrounding India’s historic Kolhapuri sandals, prompting pivotal discussions and boosting demand for authentic local products. Meanwhile, Priyanka Chopra’s impeccable style at Wimbledon 2025 underscores celebrity power to shape fashion narratives and luxury brand visibility around the globe.
Prada and Maharashtra body plan talks on Kolhapuri sandals
In response to backlash over its Spring Summer 2026 menswear collection, Prada is engaging proactively with the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (MACCIA). The iconic Italian luxury house faced criticism for allegedly appropriating traditional craftsmanship of ‘Kolhapuri’ sandals without initial credit to Indian artisans. A proposed joint working group aims to co-create limited-edition lines, culturally exchange design insights, and elevate artisan standards globally.
The collaboration discussions, spearheaded by high-profile Prada executives including Lorenzo Bertelli and Roberto Massardi, signify luxury fashion’s increasing responsibility to acknowledge cultural inspirations responsibly. MACCIA President Lalit Gandhi emphasizes that this partnership could highlight how tradition and innovation coexist harmoniously, envisioning establishing a ‘Prada Artisan Excellence Lab’ in India.
Priyanka Chopra brings summer glam to Wimbledon 2025
Priyanka Chopra stunned spectators and fashion enthusiasts alike at Wimbledon 2025, showcasing chic elegance in a crisp white Ralph Lauren Collection halter dress. Accompanied by husband Nick Jonas, who opted for a sharp navy Ralph Lauren Purple Label blazer, the duo effortlessly illustrated celebrity influence on fashion narratives during major public events.
The couple’s dynamic presence courtside, mingling comfortably among stars such as John Cena, highlighted the symbiotic relationship between celebrity culture and fashion branding. Priyanka’s trendsetting look and sartorial confidence reaffirmed that sporting events like Wimbledon have increasingly become significant stages for luxury brands to display their fashion statements.
After Prada ‘sandal scandal’, Indian brands tap heritage pride to boost sales
In the aftermath of Prada’s controversial Kolhapuri sandal episode, Indian footwear sellers and artisans have seized the moment, utilizing nationalist pride and heritage appeal to accelerate sandal sales dramatically. The unexpected global spotlight has reignited both local and international interest in Kolhapuri sandals, originally rooted in traditions dating back to the 12th century.
Brands such as Ira Soles and Niira have strategically harnessed the heightened attention, skillfully promoting their locally handcrafted products through social media and creative marketing campaigns. Entrepreneur Rahul Parasu Kamble’s viral social media advocacy leads a broader cultural and commercial resurgence, propelling Indian sandal brands onto an international stage. As local entrepreneurs agilely respond to this unique opportunity, Indian Kolhapuri footwear is poised to emerge as a meaningful contender in the global footwear industry.