Last week, Kim Kardashian announced her plans to launch a line of shapewear called Kimono. The news was quickly met with backlash, with many critical of the naming choice. Accused of cultural appropriation, Kardashian was even asked by Kyoto's mayor Daisaku Kadokawa to not trademark "kimono."
Kardashian initially announced that she "understands" the concerns over the name, but she said she would stand by it. Now, she's backtracked on that decision.
In a series of tweets, Kim revealed she would no longer use the name. "Being an entrepreneur and my own boss has been one of the most rewarding challenges I've been blessed with in my life," she wrote. "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. 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," she continued. "I will be in touch soon. Thank you for your understanding and support always."Â
The word kimono comes from the romanization of a traditional Japanese garment, which has remained an important cultural touchstone in the country for over a thousand years.Â
"Kimono is a traditional ethnic dress fostered in our rich nature and history with our predecessors’ tireless endeavors and studies, and it is a culture that has been cherished and passed down with care," Kyoto's mayor Kadokawa explained in his open letter to Kim K. "We think that the names for ‘kimono’ are the asset shared with all humanity who love kimono and its culture, therefore they should not be monopolized."
