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Ralph Lauren Accused of Cultural Theft at Paris Fashion Week
8 Mar
Summary
- Ralph Lauren's Paris show featured earrings resembling Indian jhumkas.
- Critics accuse the brand of cultural appropriation without credit.
- Other brands like Sophie Buhai and Dior have faced similar accusations.
The Fall 2026 women's collection by Ralph Lauren, presented recently at Paris Fashion Week, has drawn significant attention and criticism. While the designs themselves garnered interest, it was the accessories, particularly long silver dangling earrings, that sparked widespread debate. These earrings bore a strong resemblance to the traditional Indian jewelry known as 'jhumkas'.
Social media platforms were flooded with accusations that Ralph Lauren had appropriated Indian culture by using jhumkas without acknowledging their origin or cultural significance. Critics, including industry figures, voiced their concerns about Western designers rebranding and profiting from cultural pieces without proper credit. This has reignited discussions about cultural borrowing and whitewashing.
However, Ralph Lauren stated that the jewelry pieces were crafted by Native American designers Neil Zarama, Jimmy Begay, and TÓPA, as part of their Authentic Makers and Artist in Residence programs. Despite this clarification, the controversy highlights a recurring issue, with other brands like Sophie Buhai and Dior previously facing backlash for designs inspired by Indian artistry and embroidery without adequate attribution.
