An Adidas designer has apologised for 'appropriating' a traditional slip-on shoe style from the southern Mexican state of Oaxaca.

The sandal was created by U.S. designer Willy Chavarría for Adidas Originals. Its thin leather, braided straps bare an uncanny resemblance to the Mexican huaraches, but instead of flat leather soles, the Adidas version has a chunkier, sporty sole.

Mexican officials say sportswear giant took design idea from Indigenous community in country’s southern Oaxaca state.