Prada Archives - National Times

05 Nov

Prada Draws Criticism for $775 Safety Pin Brooch, Netizens Call It ‘Luxury Gone Too Far’

Rajeev Sharma0 CommentsBusinessbranding controversy, luxury fashion, Prada, safety pin brooch

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…

PIL in Bombay High Court Accuses Prada of Copying Kolhapuri Chappals, Seeks Compensation for Indian Artisans

Rajeev Sharma0 CommentsIndiaBombay High Court, Geographical Indication, Kolhapuri chappals, PIL, Prada

Mumbai, July 4 — Italian luxury fashion house Prada has come under legal fire in India, with a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed in the Bombay High Court alleging the unauthorised use of the traditional Kolhapuri chappal design in its high-end footwear collection.The PIL, filed by six Pune-based lawyers, contends that Prada’s recently launched ‘toe-ring sandals,’ showcased in the brand’s spring/summer collection and priced at around ₹1 lakh a pair, closely resemble the iconic Kolhapuri chappals a symbol of Maharashtra’s cultural heritage and craftsmanship.Kolhapuri chappals are protected under India’s Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, granting exclusive rights…

Prada Admits Indian Inspiration Behind Sandal Design After Kolhapuri Chappal Row

Rajeev Sharma0 CommentsIndia, Trendingcultural appropriation, Kolhapuri chappals, Maharashtra artisans, Prada

Mumbai, June 29, 2025 — Italian luxury fashion giant Prada has acknowledged that its men’s sandals showcased in the brand’s 2026 fashion show were “inspired” by traditional Indian handcrafted footwear, following a backlash in India over the use of designs resembling Kolhapuri chappals without credit.Prada’s statement comes after the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (MACCIA) raised concerns about the fashion house’s depiction of the sandals simply as “leather sandals,” omitting any reference to their Indian roots. The omission sparked outrage among India’s fashion community and artisans in western Maharashtra, who accused Prada of cultural appropriation.“Kolhapuri Chappals represent centuries-old…