Archive · 13 Aug 2025
Adidas and Designer Apologize for Sandal Design Accusations
Adidas and designer Willy Chavarria made a sandal that looks like shoes made by people in Oaxaca, Mexico.
Some people from Oaxaca felt that it was like the designers were stealing their design, so they complained.
They felt it was wrong because the designers didn't ask for permission or work with the people who made the original shoes.
The designer, who is Mexican-American, apologized and said he didn't mean to offend.
Adidas also said sorry and will work with the Oaxacan community to make things right.
This has raised questions about how companies should use designs from other cultures.
Adidas and designer Willy Chavarria are facing criticism for a sandal design resembling traditional Oaxacan huaraches.
The design, called the Oaxaca Slip On, features braided leather straps on a sporty sole.
Mexican authorities and artisans accuse them of cultural appropriation, sparking calls for stricter design protection laws.
Chavarria apologized, stating the design aimed to honor Oaxaca but lacked proper collaboration with the community.
Adidas also apologized and pledged to collaborate with the Yalalag community to repair the damage.
- Who
- Adidas, designer Willy Chavarria, and the Zapotec Indigenous people of Oaxaca.
- What
- An Adidas sandal design by Willy Chavarria, accused of cultural appropriation, resembling traditional Oaxacan huaraches.
- When
- Recent months, with Adidas making a public apology and Chavarria responding to criticisms.
- Where
- The design is linked to Oaxaca, Mexico, particularly the Zapotec community of Villa Hidalgo Yalalag.
- Why
- The design was accused of cultural appropriation, sparking apologies and calls for design protection.
Concerns about Cultural Appropriation
Defense of the Design
Cultural Appropriation
Concerns about Cultural Appropriation
The design inappropriately copied traditional huaraches without permission, showing disrespect and potential harm to cultural heritage and economic well-being.
Defense of the Design
The design intended to honor Oaxaca, which should be seen as a gesture of appreciation; furthermore, it is just fashion.
- Product Name
- Oaxaca Slip On
- Designer
- Willy Chavarria
- Accusation
- Cultural Appropriation
- Original Footwear
- Huaraches
- Origin
- Oaxaca, Mexico
- Indigenous Group
- Zapotec