Headdresses and Mock-asins

Fashion and clothing is an ongoing trend in our everyday lives. However, do we really consider the origins of our clothes? Where is the divide between appropriation and appreciation? Back in 2007, sporting moccasins was a popular trend. However, not many individuals realized that moccasins were footwear made by North American indigenous people. These leather shoes were commonly decorated with embroidery, ornaments and beads. Many celebrities such as Hilary Duff or Mischa Barton were seen wearing the leather shoes. In 2012, Karlie Kloss, a Victoria’s Secret model walked down the runway donning an indigenous inspired headdress and moccasins. As a result, this incident sparked major backlash from audiences. In response, Victoria’s Secret claimed the attire was supposed to be representative of thanksgiving and the harvest season, but many individuals felt differently. Audiences accused the company and Kloss of cultural appropriation and cultural insensitivity. As a result, the company and Karlie Kloss released an apology on the issue.

Karlie Kloss wearing indigenous inspired headdress and moccasins on the runway

What is the main issue?

As a popular brand, Victoria’s secret’s use of cultural clothing of indigenous people were portrayed in an offensive manner. Many Indigenous people believed the model’s outfit portrayed stereotypes and sexualized Indigenous women. Moreover, the company appeared to be exploiting indigenous cultural attire for a business opportunity by producing their own version of a fashion statement. Turning clothing that holds important spiritual meaning into a “new” creation of their own. Furthermore, the models and employees of the company were not properly educated on the culture of indigenous people.

What we can do as global citizens?
As global citizens, we need to be aware, recognize and acknowledge the differences between cultural appropriation and appreciation. Converging other cultures should be done in an appropriate and careful manner to promote cultural appreciation. In addition, Global citizens should be active in recognizing and raising awareness on similar issues to this runway controversy. Our advanced technology and communication should be helpful means to raise awareness of these issues. Despite “Americanization” being prevalent in other countries, cultures are constantly changing through hybridization and it is important to give credit where credit is due. Many moccasins sold in retail stores are not made by indigenous designers. Products of indigenous people should be made and purchased from credible indigenous designers who know and understand the importance of the culture.