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Indian kurta becomes viral 'tunic dress' costing Rs 12,000
25 Mar
Summary
- Massimo Dutti's tunic dress sparked a debate on cultural appropriation.
- The dress bears a striking resemblance to traditional Indian kurta sets.
- Similar instances involved Prada sandals and Ralph Lauren jhumkas.
A recent "tunic dress" by Massimo Dutti, priced at approximately Rs 12,000, has ignited controversy online. The dress's design is notably similar to traditional Indian kurta sets, prompting accusations of cultural appropriation. Social media users pointed out the striking resemblance to everyday Indian attire, with one noting a comparable item purchased for Rs 1000.
This situation is not isolated. Previously, Prada presented sandals resembling handcrafted Kolhapuri chappals on a Milan runway, retailing for over Rs 1.2 lakh, without crediting Indian craftsmanship. Similarly, Ralph Lauren's Fall 2026 collection in Paris featured jhumkas, a distinctly Indian earring style, but the brand's acknowledgment focused on other design influences.
Even influencers have rebranded Indian staples like the dupatta as "Scandinavian scarves." This pattern reveals how everyday Indian garments are often reframed as "elevated" or "luxury" fashion in Western markets, frequently omitting their Indian heritage and the source of inspiration.
