Archive · 25 Jun 2025
Fashion's Appropriation of Indian Designs Sparks Outrage
Some fashion brands are taking designs from India, like shoes and scarves, and using them in their own collections without giving credit.
This is a problem because it's like they're pretending the designs are theirs, when they actually come from a different culture.
It's similar to taking ideas without saying where they came from.
Experts say it's important to respect where designs come from and to give credit to the original creators.
It is about the difference between being inspired by something and taking something.
This can happen with things like clothing styles or accessories.
Luxury fashion brands are accused of cultural appropriation by taking Indian designs and presenting them as their own.
Prada showcased Kolhapuri chappals on the runway without acknowledging their heritage.
Indian designers and aesthetics are often rebranded under Western labels without recognition.
The "Scandinavian scarf" trend, resembling the Indian dupatta, sparked cultural whitewashing concerns.
The fashion industry is criticized for treating Indian heritage as inspiration, not a legacy to be respected.
- Who
- Luxury fashion brands, Indian designers, fashion experts, and consumers.
- What
- Cultural appropriation of Indian designs by high fashion brands.
- When
- Ongoing trend, with examples from recent years.
- Where
- Fashion industry globally, with examples from runways in Milan, Paris, and other locations.
- Why
- To highlight instances of cultural appropriation and the lack of credit given to Indian design and heritage.
Accusations of Appropriation
Inspiration and Innovation
Cultural borrowing in fashion
Accusations of Appropriation
Luxury brands are wrongly taking designs without proper acknowledgment.
Inspiration and Innovation
Fashion is based on inspiration. Cultural exchange can be a positive thing.
- Key Issue
- Cultural Appropriation
- Examples
- Kolhapuri chappals, dupattas, and block prints
- Brands Mentioned
- Prada, Dior, Gucci
- Designers Affected
- Anupamaa Dayal
- Origin of Inspiration
- Indian designs and heritage