As the article notes, this is not the first time we have seen this kind of public response to brand campaigns and collections from major fashion houses.
Most recently D&G were accused of racism regarding their Chinese campaign and Prada of the same regarding a series of black monkey keychains with exaggerated red lips. And in each case, the public backlash is justified.
Intentional or not, too often brands are quick to push products to market without taking a step back and considering “what are we trying to achieve” and “how will this be perceived”.
Fashion is of course fast moving and this is an industry where there is pressure to deliver something new, every season, every time. But this should not be at the expense of undermining fundamental values important to us all.
The black "balaclava jumper" covered the lower half of the face and featured a red cut-out around the mouth. The item prompted a backlash on social media by users who claimed the design was offensive. In a statement, Gucci apologised for any offence caused and said it would be removed from sale.