Willy Chavarria, a prominent US fashion designer, has publicly apologized for his recent collaboration with Adidas Originals, which faced backlash for allegedly appropriating traditional Mexican cultural designs. The controversy primarily stemmed from the Oaxaca Slip-On shoe, which Chavarria inspired by the traditional huarache sandals made by Indigenous artisans in Mexico. Critics, including the Mexican president, condemned the shoe for being created without proper acknowledgment or collaboration with the communities responsible for the original design, as it was manufactured in China.
Adidas Designer Issues Apology Over Controversial Shoe Inspired by Mexican Culture
Adidas Designer Issues Apology Over Controversial Shoe Inspired by Mexican Culture
Fashion designer Willy Chavarria addresses criticism of his collaboration with Adidas for "cultural appropriation" of indigenous designs.
In a heartfelt statement shared with the BBC, Chavarria expressed, "I am deeply sorry that the shoe was appropriated in this design and not developed in direct and meaningful partnership with the Oaxacan community." Cultural appropriation, a term describing the unconsented adoption of cultural elements by a dominant group, played a central role in the criticism directed at the footwear. President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico emphasized that large corporations frequently extract elements from Indigenous cultures without proper credit.
Chavarria also shared his regret for not having collaborated more closely with the local artisans and communities, stating, "This falls short of the respect and collaborative approach that Oaxaca...and its people deserve." Following the criticism, promotional images of the Oaxaca Slip-On were removed from both Adidas's and Chavarria's social media platforms.
Adidas reportedly reached out to Oaxacan officials seeking discussions on potential restitution for the impacted communities, reflecting a growing recognition of the need for accountability in cultural collaborations. The company's formal response acknowledged the cultural richness of Mexico's Indigenous populations and highlighted their willingness to hold discussions aimed at remedying the situation.
As concerns over cultural appropriation in fashion continue to rise, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of collaboration and respect for the cultural heritage of communities around the globe.
Chavarria also shared his regret for not having collaborated more closely with the local artisans and communities, stating, "This falls short of the respect and collaborative approach that Oaxaca...and its people deserve." Following the criticism, promotional images of the Oaxaca Slip-On were removed from both Adidas's and Chavarria's social media platforms.
Adidas reportedly reached out to Oaxacan officials seeking discussions on potential restitution for the impacted communities, reflecting a growing recognition of the need for accountability in cultural collaborations. The company's formal response acknowledged the cultural richness of Mexico's Indigenous populations and highlighted their willingness to hold discussions aimed at remedying the situation.
As concerns over cultural appropriation in fashion continue to rise, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of collaboration and respect for the cultural heritage of communities around the globe.
