When appreciation becomes appropriation
When Victoria’s Secret model Karlie Kloss walked onto the runway wearing turquoise jewelry, animal-print underwear, and a Native American feathered headdress in a fashion show in 2012, the company immediately received major criticism. Many were outraged, saying the outfit was disrespectful and offensive to Native American culture. A full headdress was traditionally worn by warriors and chiefs. Each feather was earned, symbolizing an act of honor and bravery. Instead, it was now being worn by a white model as a way to market lingerie. Kloss and the company both released apologies to the public, saying they didn’t mean any harm.