The Prada Spring/Summer 2026 menswear collection is an eclectic amalgamation of ideas. At times, the collection feels like it is made for a music festival attendee, with hippie-esque prints and colourful treatments, while also referencing the great outdoors, especially with the array of utilitarian backpacks.
Somewhat hidden in the conceptual chaos are leather sandals steeped in history and centuries of artisanal craftsmanship. These limited-edition sandals aren’t regular sandals; they’re shaped from traditional Indian Kolhapuri chappals—a generational design that has existed in India circa the 12th century. While many variations have since existed (including the capal that’s a descendant of the Indian chappal and popular with Malay men in Singapore and Malaysia) Kolhapuri chappals are distinct in the design as well as how they’re made. As the name suggests, they were originally crafted in Kolhapur in India’s Maharashtra state and continue to be made by hand in eight districts across Maharashtra and Karnataka.
The “Prada Made in India x Inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals” project taps on the skills and knowledge of these artisans to craft these limited-edition pieces using premium Prada materials. Developed in collaboration with Sant Rohidas Leather Industries and Charmakar Development Corporation Ltd (LIDCOM) and Dr Babu Jagjivan Ram Leather Industries Development Corporation Ltd (LIDKAR)—the Indian government organisations focused on safeguarding, promoting and developing the Indian leather industry and heritage of Kolhapuri chappals—the project aims to not be merely about aesthetics.
Much like the “Made In…” project launched a decade ago, this new chapter will celebrate and support the craft through a training programme specifically for the eight districts in India. This initiative will be fully funded by Prada, with proceeds of the sale of the limited-edition sandal collection going to it. The programme was developed in collaboration with LIDCOM, LIDKAR and the two institutions that will run the training courses, the National Institute of Fashion Technology and the Karnataka Institute of Leather & Fashion Technology. From the press statement we gleaned that the programme will run over three years in six-month modules and will be open to a total of 180 artisans between the ages of 18 and 45.
“Education is a fundamental pillar in ensuring that craftsmanship can survive as a living practice. With this training programme, we are translating a shared cultural dialogue into an opportunity for learning and growth. Supporting artisans through structured training means safeguarding knowledge, strengthening local communities, and ensuring that traditional craftsmanship continues to evolve and thrive,” commented Lorenzo Bertelli, Prada Group Head of Corporate Social Responsibility, in the press statement.
At the end of each six-month module, selected participants will continue their training at the Prada Group Academy in Italy, furthering the cross-continental dialogue of craftsmanship and technical expertise.
The Prada Made in India x Inspired by Kolhapuri Chappal leather sandals are now available in boutiques and online.
