Kim Kardashian West, an American media personality and television star, has been accused of Japanese cultural appropriation after launching her new line of figure-hugging shapewear called “Kimono.” The reality star took to social media this week to unveil her new Kimono line, describing it as a collection of skin-tone-colored shapewear in a range of sizes. Kim stated that she had been working for a year on this underwear, which offers solutions for women who actually work.
The name of Kim’s new business venture “Kimono” is already wrapped up in controversy by angering a lot of people. Kimonos are traditional Japanese robes with wide sleeves and a V-neck worn at formal affairs and special occasions. Many people have criticized the hashtag “#KimOhNo” on social media by calling it disrespectful. A search of the online database for the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has revealed that Kardashian West’s new Kimono Intimates brand has applied for Trademark Registration for a specific font version of the word “Kimono.”
Japanese American actor, Tamlyn Tomita posted pictures of actual Kimonos on social media and criticized Kim for shamelessly selling a line of shapewear, which according to her, people don’t need at all. Although many people have opposed the shapewear, some believe that it could offer a chance to promote the traditional Japanese outfit, which is losing its popularity and essence in Japan.
Till now, Kim has not addressed the controversy, and is instead, using an alternate hashtag “#KimonoBody” along with posting pictures of her collection featuring bras, one-piece bodies, and high-waist underwear to promote her new lingerie line. She also revealed that her husband, Kanye West, drew the brand’s logo.