Prada’s ‘Antiqued Leather Pumps’ Spark Fresh Cultural Appropriation Debate Over Punjabi Juttis

Weeks after facing backlash over its Kolhapuri sandal-inspired designs, luxury fashion house Prada is once again under scrutiny — this time for a $1,450 pair of shoes resembling the traditional Punjabi jutti. Marketed as part of the brand’s fall collection, the pointed, slip-on pumps have caught the attention of Indian fashion observers who quickly noted the similarities to the centuries-old North Indian footwear.

Described by Prada as “original and unconventional,” the shoes bear hallmark features of Punjabi juttis — pointed closed toes, minimal seams, and a muted leather finish. Traditionally handmade with leather and often adorned with intricate regional embroidery, juttis are deeply rooted in South Asian cultural history, tracing origins from the royal courts of Patiala to the bustling markets of Kasur, now in Pakistan. While Kolhapuris hold a GI tag, juttis, though without official certification, remain an integral part of Indian cultural attire for weddings, festivals, and daily wear.

Following the Kolhapuri sandal controversy, Prada had amended its marketing language and engaged with Maharashtra artisans. In the wake of the jutti-inspired design’s release, Prada appears to be treading carefully again, making subtle edits to its promotional material — now referencing “inspiration from Indian artisanship” in captions. However, conversations around cultural appropriation and crediting traditional crafts continue to dominate social media and fashion circles.

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