Weekly Pop Culture Recap: Beyoncé Wears Custom Manish Malhotra at Cowboy Carter Tour Stop in Paris, Prada SS26 Criticized for Uncredited Use of Kolhapuri-Inspired Sandals

It’s been an interesting week across pop culture and fashion, full of moments that made us pause, think and take note. Catch up on everything that mattered, all in one place.

Beyoncé Wears Custom Manish Malhotra at Cowboy Carter Tour in Paris

Beyoncé delivered a sartorial statement during the Paris leg of her Cowboy Carter Tour 2025, commanding the stage at Stade de France in a custom creation by Indian couturier Manish Malhotra. The look not only complemented her  performance but also marked a milestone moment for Indian design on an international platform.

The ensemble was an interplay of glamour and Western-inspired edge. A sleek black bodysuit, encrusted with crystals, was paired with thigh-high embellished boots and structured metallic detailing at the waist bringing together precision craftsmanship with bold stage presence.

Prada Spring/Summer 2026 Faces Backlash for Uncredited Use of Indian Kolhapuri Chappals

Prada’s Spring/Summer 2026 Menswear Show, held on June 22 at Fondazione Prada’s Deposito in Milan, is under fire. While the collection, designed by Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons, featured a range of soft, youthful silhouettes and minimalist set design, it was the footwear that grabbed attention online, especially from Indian audiences.

The flat, tan leather sandals with toe loops bore a striking resemblance to Kolhapuri chappals which is a traditional Indian footwear handcrafted in Kolhapur, Maharashtra. These chappals, protected under India’s Geographical Indication (GI) tag since 2019, are not just functional items but cultural artifacts passed down through generations.

Despite the obvious inspiration, neither the show notes nor the invitations made any reference to India or the artisans behind the original design. The omission has led to  criticism, with many accusing the luxury fashion house of cultural appropriation. People are pointing out how global fashion brands often borrow from South Asian aesthetics without acknowledging the communities they come from.

While some Indian users expressed pride at seeing a homegrown design on a global runway, the larger conversation centered on the industry’s persistent blind spot when it comes to giving credit where it’s due. This oversight feels tone-deaf and all too familiar.

All Seven BTS Members Complete Military Service, Fans Eager for What’s Next

BTS is once again dominating conversations worldwide, and this time it’s for a long-awaited reason. All seven members—RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook—have officially completed their mandatory military service in South Korea. With Suga, the final member, discharged on June 21, 2025, after serving as a social service agent, the group’s chapter of enlistment has come to a close. Naturally, anticipation is at an all-time high as fans eagerly await what’s next for the global superstars.

Stray Kids’ Seungmin Joins Burberry as New Brand Ambassador

British luxury label Burberry has officially announced Seungmin of Stray Kids as its newest brand ambassador. In a statement released on June 17, the fashion house praised Seungmin’s individuality and creative spirit, noting that his bold presence in both music and fashion aligns seamlessly with Burberry’s vision.

Creative director Daniel Lee welcomed him to the brand, saying, “We’re excited to have Seungmin join the Burberry family. His distinct style and energy bring a fresh perspective to our ongoing journey.” Reflecting on the partnership, Seungmin shared, “Becoming a Burberry ambassador is truly an honor. The brand’s heritage and identity inspire me, and I’m looking forward to what we’ll create together.”

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