Racism and sexism: 5 times the world of high fashion got schooled

In its world of flashy clothes and picture-perfect models, the fashion industry may appear glamorous and alluring at first glance.

However, a darker side lurks beneath the glossy veneer of 'high fashion'. 

Several high-end luxury brands have been lambasted recently for displaying insensitivity in either their designs, or the contentious campaigns. Even designers themselves (in the case of the late Karl Lagerfeld) have not been spared.

The series of faux pas has also triggered widespread consternation from the public.

1. THE DARK SIDE OF KARL LAGERFELD

His accomplishments are not to be ignored, but not everyone was quick in glorifying the legendary designer, who died on Feb 19.

The late fashion icon has definitely made his mark in the fashion industry, from revamping Fendi to being at the forefront of fashion juggernaut, Chanel. His legacy and success are undeniable.

But according to reports, he has had a long history of "disparaging fat women". “No one wants to see curvy women,” he famously told German magazine Focus in 2009.

Upon his death, actress and body positive activist Jameela Jamil called out the designer for being "ruthless" and "fat-phobic". Her remarks sparked a civil 'argument' between herself and model-actress Cara Delevingne, a strong supporter and personal friend of the designer. 

The conclusion? Both simply agreed to disagree.

2. BURBERRY NOOSE HOODIE

Burberry's latest 2019 collection for London Fashion Week in February featured a rather controversial item - a hoodie with what looks like a 'noose' brazenly hanging from a model's neck.

Unsurprisingly, many took issue with it.

Model Liz Kennedy, who walked the Burberry show, came forward to criticise the British brand.

"Suicide is not fashion," she commented on Instagram; adding that she was "ashamed to have been a part of the show".

In response to the backlash, Burberry apologised, stating that the brand is "deeply sorry for the distress caused by one of the products", explaining that the cord was a piece which reflected its nautical theme. 

ALSO READ: Burberry receives backlash for sending a noose hoodie down the runway

2. DOLCE & GABBANA'S RACIST ADVERTISEMENT

Dolce & Gabbana (D&G) came under fire for a series of videos that allegedly mocked Chinese culture, despite the Italian fashion house claiming that it was a "tribute to China". 

The string of advertisements, which was released four days prior to their Shanghai fashion show on Nov 21 last year, portrayed a giggly Chinese model being told how to use chopsticks to eat Italian food. 

To add to to the controversy, a screenshot showing the conversation between Stefano Gabbana, one of the designers, and a model, Michele Tranovo, escalated the situation. 

Within a short period of time, models, influencers and contracted celebrities started pulling out of the show, leading to the eventual cancellation of the multi-million dollar fashion event (which cost an estimated S$40 million). 

D&G apologised and blamed the racist remarks on Stefano's account being hacked, which convinced no one. 

Since then, many companies like Alibaba have boycotted the brand. 

ALSO READ: People just started leaving: Singapore socialite on Dolce & Gabbana show cancellation

4. GUCCI 'BLACKFACE' BALACLAVA JUMPER 

This jumper in Gucci's Fall/Winter 2018 runway show in February was called out for being racist, and the fashion brand was accused of depicting blackface during Black History Month, which is observed in US and Canada. 

The black turtleneck with a red-lined cutout sparked outrage despite Gucci claiming that its an inspiration from "vintage ski masks".

The designer Alessandro Michele later published an apology letter admitting that he is "heartfully sorry for this hurt" and the fact that the turtle-neck jumper evoked racist imagery caused him the "greatest grief".

Let's hope that Gucci stays true to their commitment to diversity.

ALSO READ: Gucci pulls polo neck after 'blackface' claims

5. PRADA 'BLACKFACE' ACCESSORIES

This Italian luxury powerhouse found itself in hot water after launching their Pradamalia collection last December. With oversized thick lips stretched over a dark skinned caricature, the Ottoman keychain caused an eruption of disapproval from social media after people pointed out the allusion to blackface once again. 

In a viral Facebook post, Chinyere Ezie, an attorney from the Center for Constitutional Rights berated the brand. 

Prada gave a response and subsequently pulled the accessories off shelves due to the major backlash.

Most recently this month, pop star Katy Perry was also forced to apologise and recall shoes from her fashion line, after they were accused of resembling blackface.

In her statement to Entertainment Tonight, Katy said that the slip-on mules were envisioned as "a nod to modern art and surrealism" and were created in a variety of colours.

It is certain that these brands have definitely learned the hard way from their costly mistakes. Whether they be genuine cluelessness or ingrained discrimination? You be the judge.

huangjunyi@asiaone.com

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