Public outcry forces Gucci to pull down yet another fashion piece worth Ksh.80,000 from collection

Gucci is under fire and facing worldwide criticism once again for its fashion, this time for a fashion turban that people are saying is appropriating the #Sikh community.

Not too long ago, the luxury fashion brand was caught up in accusations of racism after releasing a sweater that many felt depicted blackface. The sweater has since been pulled from shelves, and Gucci created an initiative to avoid similar mistakes.

Image result for gucci black face

However, it’s May and now Gucci is receiving backlash for its $800 ‘Indy Full Head Wrap.’ The Sikh community claims that it belittles their faith, according to @businessinsider. The head wrap was described on Nordstrom’s website as “a gorgeously crafted turban” that will “turn heads while keeping you in comfort as well as trademark style.”

The Sikh Coalition told Business Insider that Nordstrom has since “offered their sincere apologies” and will no longer sell the turban and they “hope that Gucci will follow suit.”

Sikhism, the world’s fifth largest religion, was founded in the Punjab region of South Asia. Today, there are more than 25 million Sikhs around the world and about 500,000 in the U.S. The Sikh identity includes five articles of faith, the most visible aspect being the turban, which can be worn by men and women.

The Sikh Coalition says the turban “assets a public commitment to maintaining the values and ethics of the tradition including service, compassion, and honesty.”

The turban actually first garnered criticism when it debuted at the Milan Fashion in February, especially because the turban was displayed on a white runway model.

On Twitter, The Sikh Coalition noted: “The Sikh turban is not just a fashion accessory, but it’s also a sacred religious article of faith. We hope more can be done to recognize this critical context.”

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *