Following a previous "slave sandal" issue and their agreeing to dress the United States first lady Melania Trump, Italian fashion house Dolce & Gabbana is at the center of yet another controversy: an embellished sneaker with a problematic statement that has the internet at odds.
IMAGE Dolce & Gabbana
The shoe, designed by Japanese illustrator Jumpei Kawamura, is part of the brand's Fall 2017 collection. It features quirky pen-like scribbles, a sequined musical note, along with a variety of studs. The many phrases scribbled on the shoe includes one that reads "I'm thin and gorgeous," just below the ankle.
Co-founder Stefano Gabbana posted a photo of Jumpei's illustration of the sneaker on his personal account, tagging the artist. However, commenters instantly spotted the blue scribble and were quick to point out its negative implications.
IMAGE INSTAGRAM/stefanogabbana
Meanwhile, a handful of users defended the design.
IMAGE INSTAGRAM/stefanogabbana
As more people began leaving comments on the photo, Stefano himself started replying directly to the users.
IMAGE INSTAGRAM/stefanogabbana
Not long after, several news outlets like Footwear News and Yahoo began picking up the rising controversy. Gutted, the designer responded with another Instagram post, complete with laughing emojis—"When idiocy distorts reality!!! incredibile!!!! Next time we'll write LOVE TO BE FAT AND FULL OF CHOLESTEROL."
The heated debate only continued on the post, further splitting the consensus.
While Stefano himself is directly engaged in the issue, an official statement from the brand has yet to be released.
Hey, Preview readers! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Tiktok, and Twitter to stay up to speed on all things trendy and creative. We’ll curate the most stylish feed for you!
