Milan, November 5, 2025— Global fashion powerhouse Prada has sparked a storm of online outrage after unveiling a $775 (₹68,700) safety pin brooch, a minimalist accessory that many believe symbolizes the absurdity of modern luxury branding.
The brooch, featuring a simple metal safety pin adorned with a small piece of thread and the iconic Prada logo, was launched as part of the brand’s latest collection. However, what was meant to be a statement of understated elegance quickly turned into a viral controversy.
Social media erupted with reactions mocking the steep price tag. One user joked, “Imagine paying rent money for a safety pin,” while another remarked that the brand had turned “a five-cent item into a fashion miracle.” Critics accused Prada of pushing “brand worship” to extremes, arguing that the accessory relies more on the logo than on design innovation.
Fashion commentators say the incident highlights how high-end labels often exploit minimalism and exclusivity to create artificial demand. The episode also reignites ongoing debates about luxury marketing, where simplicity is sometimes mistaken for sophistication.
This isn’t the first time Prada has drawn public criticism. Earlier this year, the label faced backlash for rebranding traditional Indian Kolhapuri sandals as a high-fashion product, raising questions about cultural sensitivity in global fashion.
Despite the uproar, the brooch has reportedly found buyers among die-hard Prada enthusiasts, proving that controversy can sometimes fuel curiosity — and sales. The brand has yet to respond publicly to the criticism.
Prada Draws Criticism for $775 Safety Pin Brooch, Netizens Call It ‘Luxury Gone Too Far’
