Oh dear.
Dolce and Gabbana are being accused of glorifying slavery after releasing ‘slave sandals’ in their Spring-Summer 2016 collection.
The colourful pom-pom flats, which retail for $2,395, were part of the iconic fashion house’s collection which was inspired by ‘a declaration of love to Italy, told through unique clothing and accessories on an imaginary journey through the wonders of this country,’ but the name of the product item has infuriated many.
One pundit Tahirah Hairson tweeted: “The designers behind Dolce & Gabbana are just racist. This is the second time this has happened. 1st, the “Mammy” earrings, now “Slave” sandals.”
Dee Dee Dunleavy tweeted: “The Dolce and Gabbana “Slave” sandals, only $2395. I’m waiting for the matching shackles.”
Since the controversy the brand has change the name to the “decorative flat sandal in Napa leather”.
The shoes are also available at Saks Fifth Avenue and Moda Operandi, but were not given the ‘slave’ title there.
Instead the shoes were given the titles “pom pom leather lace-up sandal”, and “pom pom wrap around sandal” respectively by those retailers.
Video you might also like: Happy International Women’s Day from Hamish Blake
