After receiving backlash for the name of her shapewear line, Kim Kardashian has announced that she will change the name ‘Kimono.”
The KKW beauty founder was forced to back-track on her initial justification for the name, which was that she had no plans to create garments resembling the traditional garment and that she had a “deep respect” for the significance of the kimono in Japanese culture.
WATCH: How does Kim Kardashian pull off her outfits?
Many fans were outraged by Kim’s decision to name her Solutionwear brand, Kimono, even starting the hashtag “KimOhNo.”
The reality star was accused of cultural appropriation and “diluting Japanese culture” through trademarking the word “kimono.”
Daisaku Kadokawa, the mayor of Kyoto also sent Kim Kardashian a formal letter asking her to consider removing the name Kimono from her line.
According to Fox News, the mayor wrote the following:
“Kimono is a traditional ethnic dress fostered in our rich nature and history with our predecessors’ tireless endeavours and studies, and it is a culture that has been cherished and passed down with care in our living. Also, it is a fruit of craftsmanship and truly symbolizes sense of beauty, spirits and values of Japanese,” read an excerpt of the letter shared with Fox News.
“We are currently undertaking initiatives nationally to make ‘Kimono Culture,’ symbol of our culture and spirits, registered to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list. 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,” the mayor continued.”
Kadokawa’s letter, as well as the criticism Kim received online prompted her to change the name of her Solutionwear brand.
“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,” Kim tweeted.
The beauty mogul confirmed her decision to rebrand her shapewear line in a second tweet:
“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.”
Kim Kardashian West‘s shapewear line will be available in a range of sizes and colours.
The new name for the Solutionwear brand is yet to be announced.
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