Owning the Story: Why Cultural Credit is the Future of Ethical Fashion

Reflections by our Founder, Priya

In a world where global brands are constantly looking for “inspiration,” there’s a growing need to pause and ask: who are we borrowing from, and who gets left out of the story?

When Prada released their version of Kolhapuri chappals—a design handcrafted for generations by artisans in Maharashtra—it triggered an important conversation on cultural appropriation vs cultural appreciation. I was grateful to be invited by ABC News journalist Angelica Silva to share my perspective on this growing global issue.

At Punar, we often say: ethics and elegance go hand in hand. Acknowledging artisans is not just about giving credit—it’s about shifting power. It’s about recognising the centuries of craft, identity, and community woven into every piece. Designs like Kolhapuris carry more than style—they carry legacy. When that legacy is lifted without consent, it becomes erasure.

In the interview, I spoke about what true fashion leadership looks like today. It's not about replication. It's about collaboration—working with artisan communities, paying fair wages, ensuring materials are ethically sourced, and labelling origins transparently. These are not radical acts—they’re responsible ones.

We also touched on the importance of Geographical Indications (GI)—a regulatory tool that protects traditional regional products. While the EU enforces this well, countries like India and others across Asia need stronger frameworks to ensure these protections go beyond paper. Our systems must centre artisans, not just aesthetics.

This is where I believe real innovation lies—in deep respect for culture, people, and the planet. Ethical sourcing and artisan partnerships aren’t trends. They are the future of luxury.

A heartfelt thank you to Angelica Silva and the ABC News team for spotlighting this conversation. You can read the full article here.

Let’s continue to build a fashion industry—and a future—that doesn’t just borrow from culture, but stands alongside it. If this resonates with you, I’d love to hear your reflections.

#EthicalFashion #CulturalAppreciation #KolhapuriChappals #ArtisanVoices #TextileHeritage #SustainableLuxury #FashionJustice #Transparency #Punar