The annual Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show producers have agreed to remove a controversial segment of film footage from the one-hour CBS special that was recorded last week for broadcast on Dec. 4.
Model Karlie Kloss, 20, walked the runway Nov. 7 wearing a Native American-inspired headdress with turquoise jewelry and skimpy animal print lingerie.
The feathered head gear caused an outcry from the blog Native Appropriations. Columnist Ruth Hopkins wrote, “After years of patronage and loyalty to the Victoria’s Secret brand, I am repaid with the mean-spirited, disrespectful trivialization of my blood ancestry and the proud Native identity I work hard to instill in my children.”
Her post continued, “Putting a headdress on a white model is particularly offensive, because among the Sioux tribe, war bonnets are exclusively worn by men, with each feather symbolizing an act of valor.”
The lingerie brand apologized with this statement: “We are sorry that the Native American headdress replica used in our recent fashion show has upset individuals. We sincerely apologize as we absolutely had no intention to offend anyone. Out of respect, we will not be including the outfit in any broadcast, marketing materials nor in any other way.”
Photos: WENN