*Last week, after Kim Kardashian announced plans to launch a line of shapewear called Kimono, she was accused of cultural appropriation from folks critical of the naming choice.
Kimono is a traditional Japanese clothing item.
One Twitter user reacted to Kim’s latest venture by writing: “Anyone else mad that Kim K really has a new brand called ‘Kimono’???? Like?? How is her shapewear even connected to Japan? I’m mad.”
Another user questioned: “Why’s it called kimono if that’s a completely different style of clothing. I get that you’re incorporating your name but kimono is the name of a traditional (and cultural) Japanese robe.”
“So many words in the world and you had to pick kimono,” a third added.
Kardashian was even asked by Kyoto’s mayor Daisaku Kadokawa to not trademark “kimono.”
While the line received much positive feedback, some social media users were unrelenting in their criticism, and now the reality star has revealed plans to change the name, Complex reports.
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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
Kim initially said she “understands” the concerns over the name, but vowed to stand by it. She also gave a statement to The New York Times, claiming that Kimono was meant to be “a nod to the beauty and detail that goes into a garment” and she does not plan on changing the name or design any items that “resemble or dishonor the traditional garment.”
“I understand and have deep respect for the significance of the kimono in Japanese culture,” she said in her statement. “My solutionwear brand is built with inclusivity and diversity at its core and I’m incredibly proud of what’s to come.”
Now, she has backtracked on that decision.
Taking to Twitter on Monday morning, Kardashian said she will “be in touch soon” to reveal the new brand name.
“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. I am always listening, learning and growing – I so appreciate the passion and varied perspectives that people bring to me,” she wrote.
Adding, “When I announced the name of my shapewear line, I did so with the best intentions in mind. 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.”
Kardashian’s “solutionwear” consists of “bikini briefs, thongs, bras, waist trainers, body suits, thermal leggings and more, retailing from $22 to $98. They will be sold in sizes XXS to 4XL and in nine different tonal colors at launch,” per PEOPLE.
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