Adidas Oaxaca Sandal Cultural Appropriation

Mexican-American designer Willy Chavarria created the 'Mexico — Oaxaca Slip On' sandal for Adidas, which has drawn accusations of cultural appropriation from Mexico's government and Indigenous communities in Mexico — Oaxaca. The design, featuring braided leather straps, is strikingly similar to traditional huaraches made by the Zapotec Indigenous people in Villa Hidalgo Yalalag, Mexico — Oaxaca. Mexican authorities, including President Claudia Sheinbaum, are seeking compensation from Adidas and plan to strengthen laws to protect Mexican designs. Both Willy Chavarria and Adidas have issued apologies, with Adidas committing to meet with Mexico — Oaxacan officials to discuss reparations. This incident is part of a broader trend of Mexican officials denouncing major brands like EITC, Inditex — Zara, and Carolina Herrera for using unauthorized Indigenous designs.