Ravers And Controversy Provided by Marc Jacobs
In the midst of an edgy, politically fueled first half of fashion week (Opening Ceremony’s fashion show-turned-political forum to illustrate), the end of Fashion week brought some bubble and spunk to lift our moods. Marc Jacobs brought the livened culture of a 1990s raver to end the week in New York on a lighter note. The show screamed nothing but fun in camouflage and lamé micro-shorts and babydoll wedding gowns. Metallic pastels and legs that lasted for days were paired with the dreadlocks to match, the show seemed almost like a 4 Non-Blondes concert in Bratz Doll form.
Although he produced a well received collection, people took to social media to express their distaste for his use of the faux dreadlocks in his show sported by white models. Many questioned why not use women of color to wear the dreads and walk his runway. His response did little to help, with a comment he made below a photo posted by his brand’s Instagram in which he writes, “All who cry cultural appropriation or whatever nonsense about any race or skin color wearing their hair in any particular style or manner — funny how you don’t criticize women of color for straightening their hair. I respect and am inspired by people and how they look. I don’t see color or race — I see people.” This sent critics in a flurry of debate; recalling past transgressions over other figures such as the feud between Zendaya and Giuliana Rancic where Rancic poked fun at Zendaya’s dreadlocked hairstyle at the 2015 Oscars or other topics such as Kylie Jenner’s beauty transformations.
While trying to steer himself out of the never-ending debate on politics, Jacobs’ found himself caught in the middle. His controversies might have overshadowed the actual artistry and beautyin his collection. The towering platform boots and embroidered sweaters have to fight for the limelight this time while Marc Jacobs finds a way out of this mess. Intentional or not, he found a great way to end his Spring/Summer 2017 New York Fashion Week show with a loud, glittery bang.
