At Prada’s Spring/Summer 2026 menswear show, a familiar Indian icon quietly stole the spotlight — the Kolhapuri chappal. With no changes or modern twists, the flat leather sandal made its appearance just as it is seen daily on Indian streets. It walked the runway under crisp cotton shirts and colourful raffia hats, staying true to its simple and original design.
It wasn’t redesigned or embellished. It wasn’t given a high-fashion makeover. It was just placed in the fashion spotlight — a strong reminder that true style often lies in simplicity.
Not a Comeback — It Never Left
Calling the Kolhapuri’s appearance on the Prada runway a “comeback” would be wrong. In India, it never faded away. These sandals have been a part of everyday life for decades, worn during festivals, weddings, casual outings, and everything in between. The only time they take a backseat is during the monsoon, when wearers wisely switch to rubber footwear.
In fact, Kolhapuris had already caught the eye of the West back in the 1970s, becoming a favourite of the hippie movement, which loved their earthy, handmade feel. So, this isn’t their first time on the global stage — just another well-deserved appearance.
Handmade Heritage That Speaks for Itself
One reason Kolhapuris remain so relevant is because they haven’t tried too hard to stay “in style.” They don’t follow fashion fads — they simply stay real. Each pair is handmade, sun-dried, and stitched with skill by artisans in Maharashtra and Karnataka. Since 2019, they’ve been protected with a GI (Geographical Indication) tag, recognizing their traditional roots and craftsmanship.
These artisans pass down their skills through generations, turning every pair into a piece of history you can wear. This deep connection to culture and tradition gives Kolhapuris a value far beyond fashion.
Designers Have Played — But the Soul Remains Untouched
Over the years, many designers have experimented with Kolhapuris — adding metallic finishes, lighter soles, or even pastel colours for more modern looks. They’ve been spotted on both traditional grooms and trendy fashionistas alike.
But at Prada, the chappal didn’t need any of that. It was worn just as it always has been — plain and perfect. This showed the world that some things don’t need to be reinvented. They simply need to be noticed.
A True Style Icon
The Kolhapuri chappal isn’t just footwear. It’s a blend of culture, history, and everyday fashion. From the lanes of Kolhapur to one of the biggest runways in Milan, it proves that timeless design doesn’t scream for attention — it earns it.
Prada didn’t change the Kolhapuri. It simply gave it the frame. And that’s exactly what this humble sandal needed to remind the world — true style is forever.
