Marc Jacob’s SpringSummer 2017 show featured predominantly white models including the industry’s ‘top models’, Bella and Gigi Hadid and Kendal Jenner, wearing wigs styled in pastel-colored dreadlocks for a ‘cyberpunk goth’ look inspired by ‘ravers’, ‘acid house’, ‘Harajuku girls’ and director Lana Wachowski’s distinctive hairdo. From the 52 shows, less than 10 of the models were people of color. When met with criticism for the show’s lack of acknowledgment of the style’s significant relation to Rastafarianism and Black culture, Jacobs took to Instagram to reply: ‘All who cry ‘cultural appropriation’ or whatever nonsense about any race or skin color wearing their hair in any particular style or manner – funny how you don’t criticize women of color for straightening their hair: don’t see color or race – I see people.’ Jacobs’ ‘color-blindness’ serves to erase Black culture and influence entirely from his design. Similarly, Comme des Garcon’s FallWinter 2020 collection put white models in Fulani-styled cornrowed lace front wigs to advertise their men’s co
llection; the collection’s hairstylist, Julien d’Ys, apologized on Instagram stating his inspiration was the look of an ‘Egyptian prince’, once again neglecting to credit the hair’s cultural roots and significance. Gucci also came under fire after its Fall 2018 show that featured white models wearing balaclavas that many said resembled blackface, as well as white models debuting its ‘Indy Full Turban’, a head scarf accessory that closely resembled Sikh turbans. The Sikh Coalition tweeted a response towards Gucci following the show, stating: ‘The Sikh turban is not a fashion accessory, but it’s also a sacred religious article of faith. We hope more can be done to recognize this critical context. #appropriation.’ Gucci did not release a statement following the issue. They, however, released an apology for their balaclava-style sweater that had a ring of red around the cut-out section of the lips which resembled a racist caricature. Their Twitter statement read: ‘We consider diversity to be a fundamental value to be fully upheld, respected and at the forefront of every decision we make.’