Cultural Appropriation

8 articles

Luxury Prada sandals displayed on a runway, juxtaposed with subtle imagery evoking traditional Indian Kolhapuri chappals, highlighting the controversy of cultural appropriation in fashion.
Culture

What is cultural appropriation in fashion and why did Prada face backlash?

In June of the previous year, Prada presented sandals at a Milan fashion show that were nearly identical to traditional Indian Kolhapuri chappals, priced at US$1,200, without acknowledging their origi

Eleanor Voss·August 10, 2026
Diverse individuals respectfully sharing and learning about various global traditional wellness practices in a collaborative setting.
Wellness

What is cultural humility in global wellness practices?

Engineers at a major bank now review code they didn't write, and sometimes cannot fully explain.

Yasmin El-Sayed·August 8, 2026
A person engaging in a superficial interpretation of East Asian cultural practices for wellness, highlighting the disconnect from authentic heritage.
Wellness

What is Chinamaxxing and why does it harm wellness practices?

People of Chinese heritage describe the 'Chinamaxxing' trend as 'jarring.

Yasmin El-Sayed·August 7, 2026
Diverse individuals practicing yoga in an inclusive and culturally sensitive studio environment, promoting respectful engagement with wellness practices.
Wellness

What is Respectful Engagement With Cultural Appropriation in Wellness?

A weekly free yoga class at the University of Ottawa’s Centre for Students with Disabilities was canceled for the remainder of the semester due to cultural sensitivity issues.

Yasmin El-Sayed·August 1, 2026
Models on a fashion runway wearing garments with intricate indigenous-inspired patterns, highlighting the complex issue of cultural appropriation in design.
Fashion

What is Cultural Appropriation in Fashion and Design?

In November 2020, the Mexican Ministry of Culture filed complaints against French designer Isabel Marant for selling clothes decorated with traditional designs of indigenous Mexican peoples.

Yasmin El-Sayed·June 19, 2026
A symbolic representation of indigenous textile patterns being digitally appropriated by modern fashion brands, highlighting the conflict between tradition and commercialization.
Fashion

Indigenous Designs: Cultural Appropriation in Fashion

Mexico formally accused global giants Zara, Anthropologie, and Patowl of cultural appropriation for using indigenous patterns without community benefit.

Yasmin El-Sayed·April 29, 2026
Diverse individuals from minority cultures confidently showcasing iconic Y2K fashion trends like low-rise jeans and velour tracksuits.
Fashion

Why Minority Cultures Are Driving Y2K Fashion Trends, Not Just Following

Despite the global popularity of Y2K fashion, a recent survey found that less than 15% of consumers could correctly identify the cultural origins of iconic trends like low-rise jeans or velour tracksu

Yasmin El-Sayed·April 14, 2026
Diverse group of designers and cultural figures discussing ethical fashion, with traditional patterns and modern garments in a thoughtful, respectful setting.
Fashion

What Is Cultural Appropriation in Fashion?

Cultural appropriation in fashion sparks global debate on heritage and respect. This article defines the concept, distinguishes it from appreciation, and offers ethical guidelines for designers and consumers.

Eleanor Voss·April 8, 2026