Another Fashion Company Apologizes for Racially Insensitive Design
Two weeks after Gucci apologized for one of its turtleneck sweaters that had a design that looked like blackface, another luxury fashion company has found itself criticized for racially insensitive design. The CEO and chief creative officer of Burberry have apologized after a model in its London Fashion week show over the weekend complained on Instagram about a hoodie that had its strings tied in the shape of a noose, saying it not only invoked lynchings but suicide.
Burberry CEO Marco Gobbetti said yesterday that they were, quote, "deeply sorry for the distress" caused and had removed the hoodie from its collection, as well as any images featuring it. Creative Director Riccardo Tisci also apologized, saying, "while the design was inspired by a nautical theme, I realize that it was insensitive."
In addition to this incident and the one with Gucci earlier this month, Prada stopped selling jewelry-like pieces in December that were criticized for racist imagery. Gucci and Prada have since announced initiatives to promote cultural diversity and awareness among their employees.
(Pulse Networks)