Kim Kardashian Plans to Rename Kimono Shapewear After Backlash

Keeping Up With the Kardashians star and businesswoman, Kim Kardashian West has announced she will be changing the name of her shapewear line after receiving much criticism for cultural appropriation. 

The play on the name “KimOhNo” did not settle well with many. Naming her shapewear line was a disrespect towards the Japanese culture and disregards the importance behind the Kimono. The traditional Kimono represents Japanese seasons, leaders, beauty, art and their overall culture. They are usually worn during formal occasions and represents the individuals family background. 

World, this is KIMONO, a traditional Japanese Garment.

Gorgeous and beautiful, isn't it?

I love this Japanese beautiful traditional costume and it's sad that someone calls an underwear "kimono".#KimOhNo pic.twitter.com/iDC7xMZdcu

— 𝐑𝐞𝐢🥀in🇩🇪 (@neko_in_vitro) June 26, 2019

Along with many critics, the mayor of Tokyo, Japan, Daisaku Kadokawa, wrote a letter to Kardashian West to consider changing the name as well. Japan Today releases the full letter of Kadokawa explaining that a Kimono is a traditional ethnic dress “fostered in our rich nature and history” and is a distinct feature of Japanese culture passed down through generations.

Kardashian West addressed the issue through Twitter saying “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.”  

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 Kardashian West (@KimKardashian) July 1, 2019

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 (@KimKardashian) July 1, 2019

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Kardashian West confirms through Twitter and Instagram that she will agree to change the name of her line.

View this post on Instagram

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. 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.

A post shared by Kim Kardashian West (@kimkardashian) on Jul 1, 2019 at 6:49am PDT

Image Credit to Vogue Magazine.

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