Ralph Lauren faces scrutiny for its "Print Cotton Wrap Skirt," priced at ₹44,800, a design described as "inspired by Bandhani" but omitting any mention of India or its artisans. Luxury brands increasingly draw inspiration from diverse global cultures, yet consistently fail to provide proper attribution or equitable benefit to originating communities. Without significant regulatory pressure or sustained consumer activism, luxury brands are likely to continue this pattern of cultural appropriation, trading ethical responsibility for commercial gain.
The Uncredited Muse: Luxury's Appropriation of South Asian Heritage
The Ralph Lauren incident, reported by Business Today, reveals a deliberate strategy by high-fashion houses: commodifying cultural elements while erasing their true origins. The exorbitant pricing of 'inspired' items, like Ralph Lauren's ₹44,800 skirt, exposes a significant value disparity. Brands profit immensely while originating communities likely receive no equitable compensation.
From Chappals to Jhumkas: A Pattern of Erasure
Prada replicated Kolhapuri chappals without origin mention, the BBC reported. Ralph Lauren's Fall 2024 collection featured South Asian jhumkas, described as 'vintage accessories' without origin, according to The Indian Express. These instances show a superficial engagement with cultural artifacts, reducing them to aesthetic elements for profit. Labeling culturally significant items like jhumkas as 'vintage accessories' strips away their heritage, signaling cultural erasure disguised as fashion innovation.
Empty Gestures? Brands' Responses to Backlash
Prada issued a statement acknowledging the sandals' origins after public accusation, the BBC reported. Such reactive apologies appear as damage control, not a shift in ethical practice. Brands prioritize managing public image over proactive ethical sourcing and equitable collaboration, perpetuating exploitation.
