Kimono is inappropriate brand name: Kim Kardashian
2 min read
Japanese people on social media complained that the trademarked brand, Kimono Intimates – a play on her name – disrespected traditional clothing so, Kim Kardashian West is to change the brand name for her latest fashion line following accusations of cultural appropriation.
Kardashian said she had announced the Kimono products in June “with the best intentions in mind,” and she appreciated the feedback she had received.
She wrote on Twitter, “My brands and products are built with inclusivity and diversity at their core and after careful thought and consideration, I will be launching my Solution wear brand under a new name.”
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
Yuka Ohishi, a San Francisco-based videographer who helped spread the hashtag #KimOhNo, decrying the brand’s name.
Naming your product/startup with Japanese words might seem hip and all, but it really sucks for us when our culture is diluted by names of brands that don’t have anything to do with what the word actually represents.
And better yet, trademarking it? F NO.https://t.co/8pFaEGdXI2— Yuka Ohishi (@0oyukao0) June 25, 2019
Kimono in Japanese means “thing that’s worn” and refers to full-length robes with sashes donned for formal occasions such as weddings and funerals. Her use of the word on undergarments and filing for a trademark infuriated many people.
“Kimono is not underwear! Stop trademark registration! Don’t make the word kimono yours!” Twitter user Ruu wrote shortly after the launch announcement, echoing a common theme.
