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Ralph Lauren's 'Embellishments' Spark Cultural Backlash
14 Sep
Summary
- A Ralph Lauren gown's embroidery resembles Indian zardozi craft.
- Critics accuse the brand of using Indian craftsmanship without credit.
- This incident follows similar past controversies involving other brands.
Ralph Lauren's Spring 2027 collection has ignited controversy, with a specific deep pink evening gown drawing significant online attention. The gown's detailed embroidery bears a strong resemblance to zardozi, a traditional Indian metallic thread embroidery craft.
Critics, including fashion designer Prakhar Rao Singh Chandel, accuse Ralph Lauren of utilizing Indian craftsmanship without proper attribution. Chandel highlighted that zardozi is a recognized craft from the Lucknow region, supporting numerous artisans. He pointed out the brand's description of the work as mere 'hand-applied embellishments' while detailing the fabric, questioning whose history and character the brand intended to represent.
This situation is not isolated, recalling Prada's 2025 controversy over sandals similar to Maharashtra's Kolhapuri chappals. Previously, Ralph Lauren faced backlash in August 2026 for a saree-style garment and in March 2026 for bell-shaped earrings resembling Indian jhumkas. These instances underscore a broader debate about global fashion houses crediting and acknowledging the communities preserving centuries-old techniques, rather than appropriating them without recognition.
