05 Oct
Grand Hall
Cultural appropriation as a method. Usage patterns and reception questions
In the fashion industry, there is a fine line between cultural borrowing and cultural appropriation. Designers around the world frequently draw inspiration from various cultures, sparking debates about what constitutes genuine respect and what is pure commercialization. Examples of unsuccessful borrowing include the use of traditional Native American headdresses at festivals and the controversy surrounding Louis Vuitton's collection featuring the keffiyeh. How can brands and fashion houses engage with cultural heritage respectfully? What steps should they take to avoid turning meaningful symbols into trends devoid of their original significance?
- Where does the line between cultural borrowing and cultural appropriation lie in modern fashion?
- How can brands incorporate elements from different cultures while preserving their authentic meaning?
- Is there an ideal model for collaboration between designers and the bearers of cultural traditions?
Speakers
Zainab Saidulaeva
Chief Designer and CEO
Measure
Yanina Hancharova
Art Director | Founder
Belarusian Fashion Chamber | Belarus Fashion Week
Shirene Rifai
Founder and CEO
Jordan Fashion Week
Tsepang David Teba
Coordinator and Head of Strategic Partnerships
Lesotho Fashion Week
Mahdi Ghalehnovi
General Director
Iran Public Diplomacy Foundation
Temesia Tuicaumia
Director
FIJI FASHION WEEK
Mpho Mogotsi
Managing Director
BRICS Africa Fashion Week
Soma Njie
Director
Fashion Weekend Gambia
Brian Ahumuza
Fashion Entrepreneur
Abryanz Style & Fashion Awards Africa
Moderator
Smita Roy
Senior Associate Editor
The Telegraph