Kim Kardashian West is planning to rename her new “Kimono” shapewear line after some accused her of cultural appropriation.
The reality star launched her new shapewear line last week on social media and was immediately met with criticism over its name. The “Kimono” brand aims to provide shapewear solutions to women of all colors and sizes.
Social media users bashed her use of “kimono,” saying it disrespected Japanese culture. Opponents used #KimOhNo on Twitter and posted pictures of traditional Japanese kimonos in response.
Kardashian West, 38, announced her plans to drop the name from her newest business venture Monday on Twitter and Instagram.
“My brands and products are built with inclusivity and diversity at their core and after careful consideration, I will be launching my Solutionwear brand under a new name,” the American businesswoman wrote.
Being an entrepreneur and my own boss has been one of the most rewarding challenges I’ve been blessed with in my life. What’s made it possible for me after all of these years has been the direct line of communication with my fans and the public. pic.twitter.com/IB5cto7Mlj
— Kim Kardashian West (@KimKardashian) July 1, 2019
I am always listening, learning and growing – I so appreciate the passion and varied perspectives that people bring to me. When I announced the name of my shapewear line, I did so with the best intentions in mind.
— Kim Kardashian West (@KimKardashian) July 1, 2019
My brands and products are built with inclusivity and diversity at their core and after careful thought and consideration, I will be launching my Solutionwear brand under a new name. I will be in touch soon. Thank you for your understanding and support always.
— Kim Kardashian West (@KimKardashian) July 1, 2019
Daisaku Kadokawa, the mayor of Kyoto, Japan, weighed in on the controversy and sent Kardashian West a letter expressing his displeasure over the name.
“We think that the names for ‘Kimono’ are the asset shared with all humanity who love Kimono and its culture therefore they should not be monopolized,” Kadokawa wrote.
Daisaku Kadokawa, the mayor of Kyoto, has written a letter to Kim Kardashian asking her to reconsider trying to trademark “Kimono,” saying in part: “Kimono and its culture … should not be monopolized.” Somehow I doubt she cares. pic.twitter.com/XKOfZJKmMc
— ?????? ???? (@henrikmeng) June 30, 2019
Kardashian West first responded to the criticism Thursday in a statement to the New York Times.
“I understand and have a deep respect for the significance of the kimono in Japanese culture and have no plans to design or release any garments that would in any way resemble or dishonor the traditional garment,” she told the publication. “I made the decision … not to disassociate the word from its Japanese roots but as a nod to the beauty and detail that goes into the garment.”
She further explained that her trademark of the name “kimono” would not prevent anyone from making kimonos or using the word in reference to the garment.
Kardashian West has yet to reveal what the new name of the line will be.
