Labels with “Made in India” or “Made in Scotland” right under the brand lettering are a bold new step being taken by Ms. Prada and her husband and business partner, Patrizio Bertelli. They recognize that although 85 percent of their goods are made in Italian factories, there is nothing to be ashamed of in tapping international artisans…

“‘Made in Italy’ — who cares? It’s not a brand strength if you have to defend your work,” says Ms. Prada, taking a deliberately provocative line. “Mine is a political statement and it comes from a personal appreciation of originality,” she says. “You have to embrace the world if you want to live now.”