Was The 2017 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show Culturally Appropriative?

The 2017 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show sparked controversy with its “Nomadic Adventure” segment, and mens-fashion.net dives into whether it crossed the line into cultural appropriation. It’s essential to distinguish between appreciation and appropriation, ensuring respect for diverse cultures in fashion. We’ll explore the controversies, examine the intent behind the designs, and offer insights into how brands can celebrate cultures respectfully, focusing on men’s fashion trends, style advice, and fashion inspiration for a better understanding of cultural sensitivity in the industry and offer a guide to men’s style.

1. What Was the Controversy Surrounding the 2017 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show?

The “Nomadic Adventure” segment of the 2017 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show became controversial due to its perceived cultural appropriation of Native American and African tribal dress. The segment featured models wearing outfits inspired by traditional attire from these cultures, which many viewers felt was disrespectful and insensitive.

Critics argued that the show reduced sacred cultural symbols to mere fashion accessories, trivializing their significance. This appropriation was seen as particularly egregious given the history of marginalization and exploitation faced by Native American and African communities. Social media platforms, especially Twitter, erupted with outrage, highlighting the cultural insensitivity and demanding accountability from Victoria’s Secret. The controversy underscored a broader discussion about the responsibilities of fashion brands to respect cultural boundaries and avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes. According to research from the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), in July 2025, 75% of consumers expect brands to be culturally sensitive and inclusive in their marketing and designs.

2. What Exactly Happened in the “Nomadic Adventure” Segment?

The “Nomadic Adventure” segment showcased models in outfits that drew inspiration from various indigenous cultures, particularly those of Native America and Africa. One of the most criticized looks featured a model wearing a feathered headdress resembling a warbonnet, which holds deep cultural and spiritual significance in many Native American tribes. Other outfits included tribal prints, beading techniques, and silhouettes that were interpreted as appropriations of traditional African dress.

The Victoria’s Secret press room described the segment as inspired by indigenous African cultures, aiming to showcase the “beautiful, bold colors and tribal designs that incorporate animal prints distinctive of Africa’s wildlife.” However, the blending of different cultural elements, such as the warbonnet, which is not traditionally African, further fueled the controversy. The use of non-Native models to represent these cultures was also seen as problematic. This issue was further compounded by the fact that, as noted in Elle magazine, many Native American tribes view the warbonnet as a symbol of respect and bravery, traditionally worn only by chiefs and warriors.

3. Why Was the Use of Native American-Inspired Headdresses Offensive?

The use of Native American-inspired headdresses was particularly offensive due to the headdress’s deep cultural and spiritual significance. Traditional warbonnets are not mere fashion accessories; they are earned symbols of respect and bravery, worn by chiefs and warriors in specific tribes such as the Sioux, Crow, Blackfeet, Cheyenne, and Plains Cree.

Wearing a headdress without proper authorization or understanding is seen as a sign of disrespect and trivializes the cultural heritage of Native American communities. The appropriation of these sacred items perpetuates harmful stereotypes and ignores the history of oppression and marginalization faced by Native Americans. As highlighted in a 2024 report by the National Congress of American Indians, the misuse of Native American cultural symbols in fashion and media contributes to the erasure of indigenous identities and the perpetuation of cultural misunderstandings.

4. How Did Karlie Kloss Respond to Wearing a Native American-Inspired Headdress in 2012?

In 2012, Karlie Kloss wore a Native American-inspired headdress during the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, sparking similar outrage. Kloss promptly issued an apology on Twitter, acknowledging the insensitivity of her outfit and expressing remorse for the offense caused. She stated that she did not intend to disrespect Native American culture and that she had learned a valuable lesson from the experience.

Victoria’s Secret also removed the segment from the final broadcast of the show in response to the backlash. Kloss’s quick apology and the brand’s decision to edit out the offensive content demonstrated a recognition of the issue and a willingness to take responsibility for their actions. This incident served as a reminder of the importance of cultural sensitivity in the fashion industry, as highlighted by Vogue Business in a retrospective piece on the controversy.

5. What Is the Difference Between Cultural Appreciation and Cultural Appropriation?

Cultural appreciation involves learning about and respecting another culture in a way that honors its traditions and values. It includes seeking to understand the cultural context and history behind specific practices or symbols, and engaging with the culture in a respectful and informed manner. Cultural appreciation often involves collaboration with members of the culture being celebrated and giving credit where it is due.

Cultural appropriation, on the other hand, occurs when elements of a culture are taken and used without permission, understanding, or respect. This often involves trivializing or commodifying cultural symbols, ignoring their original meaning, and perpetuating stereotypes. Cultural appropriation can be particularly harmful when the culture being appropriated has a history of oppression or marginalization. As explained by Dr. Kimberly Jenkins, a fashion historian at Parsons School of Design, the key difference lies in the power dynamics: appreciation involves mutual respect, while appropriation often reinforces existing inequalities.

6. What Other Instances of Cultural Appropriation Has Victoria’s Secret Been Accused Of?

Besides the “Nomadic Adventure” segment and the 2012 headdress incident, Victoria’s Secret has faced criticism for appropriating Chinese culture. In a previous show, model Elsa Hosk wore a dragon-inspired outfit that many viewers felt was a disrespectful representation of Chinese traditions.

Critics argued that the outfit reduced Chinese cultural symbols to mere costumes, ignoring their rich history and significance. These instances highlight a recurring pattern of cultural insensitivity within the brand and raise questions about its commitment to diversity and inclusion. As noted in The Guardian, these controversies underscore the need for fashion brands to engage in meaningful dialogue with diverse communities and to ensure that cultural representations are accurate and respectful.

7. What Are the Potential Reasons Behind Victoria’s Secret’s Cultural Missteps?

There are several potential reasons behind Victoria’s Secret’s cultural missteps. One possibility is a lack of awareness and understanding among the brand’s decision-makers regarding the cultural significance of certain symbols and practices. This could stem from a lack of diversity within the company, leading to a limited perspective on cultural issues.

Another reason could be a focus on aesthetics over cultural sensitivity, prioritizing visually appealing designs without considering their potential impact on marginalized communities. Additionally, the pressure to create sensational and attention-grabbing fashion shows may incentivize the brand to take risks that ultimately prove insensitive. As suggested by a report in Business of Fashion, brands must invest in cultural competency training and diverse teams to avoid these types of missteps.

8. How Did People React to the “Nomadic Adventure” Segment on Social Media?

The “Nomadic Adventure” segment sparked widespread outrage on social media, with many users accusing Victoria’s Secret of cultural appropriation. Twitter became a hub for criticism, with hashtags such as #VictoriasSecret and #CulturalAppropriation trending as users shared their disappointment and anger.

Viewers expressed their frustration with the brand’s decision to showcase Native American and African-inspired outfits without proper respect or understanding. Many pointed out the historical context of oppression and marginalization faced by these communities, arguing that the fashion show trivialized their cultural heritage. The backlash on social media highlighted the growing awareness of cultural appropriation and the increasing demand for accountability from fashion brands. As noted in a study by Harvard Business Review, social media has become a powerful tool for consumers to hold brands accountable for their actions and to demand greater cultural sensitivity.

9. What Should Victoria’s Secret Have Done Differently?

Victoria’s Secret could have taken several steps to avoid the cultural appropriation controversy. First, the brand should have consulted with members of the Native American and African communities to ensure that their cultural symbols and traditions were represented accurately and respectfully. This would have involved engaging in meaningful dialogue and seeking input from cultural experts throughout the design process.

Second, Victoria’s Secret could have showcased designs that were inspired by these cultures in a way that celebrated their beauty and diversity without reducing them to mere fashion accessories. This could have involved collaborating with Native American and African designers and artisans to create authentic and meaningful pieces. Finally, the brand should have used its platform to educate viewers about the cultural significance of the designs and to promote greater understanding and respect for these communities. According to research from the Cultural Marketing Center, brands that authentically engage with diverse communities and prioritize cultural sensitivity are more likely to build trust and loyalty with consumers.

10. What Lessons Can Other Brands Learn From This Controversy?

Other brands can learn several important lessons from the Victoria’s Secret cultural appropriation controversy. First, it is crucial to prioritize cultural sensitivity and to avoid appropriating cultural symbols or traditions without proper understanding and respect. This involves conducting thorough research, consulting with cultural experts, and engaging in meaningful dialogue with diverse communities.

Second, brands should invest in diversity and inclusion within their organizations to ensure that a wide range of perspectives are represented in decision-making processes. This can help to prevent cultural missteps and to promote more authentic and respectful representations of diverse cultures. Finally, brands should be prepared to take responsibility for their actions and to issue sincere apologies when they make mistakes. As highlighted in a report by Edelman, transparency and accountability are essential for building trust with consumers and for maintaining a positive brand reputation.

11. How Can Men’s Fashion Brands Promote Cultural Appreciation Instead of Appropriation?

Men’s fashion brands can promote cultural appreciation by actively engaging with diverse cultures in respectful and meaningful ways. This includes:

• Collaborating with Designers from Diverse Backgrounds: Partnering with designers and artisans from different cultural backgrounds ensures authentic representation and celebrates their unique perspectives.
• Educating Consumers: Brands can use their platforms to educate consumers about the history and significance of cultural garments, textiles, and designs.
• Giving Back to Communities: Supporting cultural preservation efforts and donating to organizations that promote cultural heritage can demonstrate a genuine commitment to appreciation.
• Avoiding Stereotypes: Ensuring that designs and marketing campaigns avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes is crucial for respectful representation.
• Promoting Inclusivity: Featuring models and influencers from diverse backgrounds in marketing campaigns promotes inclusivity and showcases the brand’s commitment to celebrating different cultures.

By following these guidelines, men’s fashion brands can foster cultural appreciation and avoid the pitfalls of cultural appropriation. According to a study by McKinsey, companies that prioritize diversity and inclusion are more likely to outperform their competitors and build stronger connections with consumers.

12. What Are Some Examples of Men’s Fashion Brands That Have Successfully Showcased Cultural Appreciation?

Several men’s fashion brands have successfully showcased cultural appreciation by engaging with diverse cultures in respectful and meaningful ways. One example is Wales Bonner, a British brand that explores themes of Black identity and cultural exchange through its designs. The brand often collaborates with artists and artisans from Africa and the Caribbean to create collections that celebrate their cultural heritage.

Another example is BODE, a New York-based brand that creates clothing from antique textiles and vintage garments. BODE’s designs often incorporate elements of traditional craftsmanship from different cultures, paying homage to their unique histories and techniques. These brands demonstrate that it is possible to create fashion that is both culturally sensitive and commercially successful. As noted in GQ, these brands are leading the way in promoting cultural appreciation and setting a new standard for the fashion industry.

13. How Can Men Incorporate Cultural Elements Into Their Style Respectfully?

Men can incorporate cultural elements into their style respectfully by:

• Learning About the Culture: Before wearing clothing or accessories from a particular culture, take the time to learn about its history, traditions, and significance.
• Avoiding Stereotypes: Be mindful of avoiding stereotypes and caricatures in your outfit choices.
• Supporting Authentic Artisans: Purchase clothing and accessories from artisans and brands that are genuinely connected to the culture.
• Giving Credit: Acknowledge the cultural origin of your clothing or accessories when discussing your style.
• Being Mindful of Context: Consider the context in which you are wearing cultural garments and ensure that it is appropriate and respectful.

By following these guidelines, men can incorporate cultural elements into their style in a way that celebrates diversity and promotes understanding. According to a survey by the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), 80% of consumers believe that it is important for individuals to be respectful of cultural traditions when incorporating them into their personal style.

14. What Role Does Social Media Play in Addressing Cultural Appropriation in Fashion?

Social media plays a significant role in addressing cultural appropriation in fashion by:

• Raising Awareness: Social media platforms provide a space for individuals to share their experiences and perspectives on cultural appropriation, raising awareness among a wider audience.
• Holding Brands Accountable: Consumers can use social media to call out brands that engage in cultural appropriation and demand accountability for their actions.
• Promoting Dialogue: Social media facilitates dialogue and discussion about cultural appropriation, allowing individuals to learn from each other and develop a deeper understanding of the issue.
• Amplifying Marginalized Voices: Social media provides a platform for marginalized communities to share their stories and perspectives, amplifying their voices and challenging dominant narratives.
• Driving Change: The pressure from social media can influence brands to change their practices and adopt more culturally sensitive approaches.

As noted in a report by Nielsen, social media has become a powerful tool for consumers to influence brand behavior and to advocate for social and cultural change.

15. What Are the Ethical Considerations for Fashion Influencers When Promoting Culturally Inspired Styles?

Fashion influencers have a responsibility to promote culturally inspired styles ethically by:

• Educating Themselves: Influencers should educate themselves about the cultural significance of the styles they are promoting.
• Avoiding Misrepresentation: Influencers should avoid misrepresenting or trivializing cultural traditions.
• Promoting Authentic Brands: Influencers should partner with brands that are genuinely connected to the cultures they are inspired by.
• Giving Credit: Influencers should acknowledge the cultural origin of the styles they are promoting and give credit to the communities that created them.
• Being Mindful of Impact: Influencers should be mindful of the potential impact of their content on marginalized communities and avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

By following these ethical guidelines, fashion influencers can use their platforms to promote cultural appreciation and to inspire their followers to engage with diverse cultures in respectful and meaningful ways. According to a study by the Association of National Advertisers (ANA), consumers are more likely to trust influencers who demonstrate authenticity and cultural sensitivity.

16. How Can Men’s Fashion Brands Ensure They Have Diverse Representation in Their Teams?

Men’s fashion brands can ensure they have diverse representation in their teams by:

• Implementing Diversity and Inclusion Policies: Developing and implementing policies that promote diversity and inclusion in hiring, promotion, and training.
• Recruiting from Diverse Sources: Recruiting from a wide range of sources, including historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), minority-serving institutions (MSIs), and diverse professional organizations.
• Providing Diversity Training: Providing diversity and inclusion training for all employees to raise awareness and promote cultural competency.
• Creating Employee Resource Groups (ERGs): Establishing ERGs to provide support and advocacy for employees from diverse backgrounds.
• Monitoring Diversity Metrics: Tracking diversity metrics to measure progress and identify areas for improvement.

By taking these steps, men’s fashion brands can create a more diverse and inclusive workplace that reflects the diversity of their customer base and the world around them. As noted in a report by Deloitte, diverse teams are more innovative, creative, and effective.

17. What Resources Are Available for Brands to Learn About Cultural Sensitivity?

Several resources are available for brands to learn about cultural sensitivity, including:

• Cultural Competency Training Programs: These programs provide training and education on cultural awareness, sensitivity, and competency.
• Diversity and Inclusion Consultants: These consultants provide expert advice and guidance on developing and implementing diversity and inclusion initiatives.
• Cultural Organizations and Experts: These organizations and experts can provide insights into specific cultural traditions and practices.
• Online Resources: Websites and publications that focus on cultural issues and provide information on cultural sensitivity.
• Industry Associations: Fashion industry associations that offer resources and guidance on ethical and responsible business practices.

By utilizing these resources, brands can develop a deeper understanding of cultural issues and create more culturally sensitive and respectful products and marketing campaigns. According to a study by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), companies that invest in cultural competency training are more likely to attract and retain diverse talent.

18. How Does Cultural Appropriation Affect the Communities Whose Culture Is Being Appropriated?

Cultural appropriation can have a significant impact on the communities whose culture is being appropriated by:

• Devaluing Cultural Heritage: Appropriation can devalue cultural heritage by trivializing sacred symbols and traditions.
• Perpetuating Stereotypes: Appropriation can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and misrepresentations of cultures.
• Erasing Cultural Identity: Appropriation can contribute to the erasure of cultural identity by appropriating cultural elements without acknowledging their origin or significance.
• Economic Exploitation: Appropriation can lead to economic exploitation when cultural elements are commercialized without benefiting the communities that created them.
• Emotional Distress: Appropriation can cause emotional distress and offense to members of the communities whose culture is being appropriated.

As noted in a report by the United Nations Human Rights Office, cultural appropriation can violate the human rights of indigenous peoples and other marginalized communities.

19. What Is the Role of Education in Preventing Cultural Appropriation?

Education plays a crucial role in preventing cultural appropriation by:

• Raising Awareness: Education can raise awareness about the history, traditions, and significance of different cultures.
• Promoting Understanding: Education can promote understanding and empathy between different cultures.
• Challenging Stereotypes: Education can challenge stereotypes and misrepresentations of cultures.
• Encouraging Respect: Education can encourage respect for cultural diversity and the rights of marginalized communities.
• Empowering Individuals: Education can empower individuals to challenge cultural appropriation and advocate for cultural justice.

By incorporating cultural education into schools, workplaces, and communities, we can create a more culturally sensitive and respectful society. According to a study by UNESCO, education is essential for promoting cultural diversity and intercultural dialogue.

20. How Can Consumers Make Informed Choices to Support Brands That Value Cultural Appreciation?

Consumers can make informed choices to support brands that value cultural appreciation by:

• Researching Brands: Researching brands to learn about their values, practices, and commitment to cultural sensitivity.
• Supporting Diverse Brands: Supporting brands that are owned and operated by members of diverse communities.
• Looking for Authentic Representation: Looking for brands that feature authentic representation of cultures in their products and marketing campaigns.
• Reading Reviews: Reading reviews and testimonials from other consumers to learn about their experiences with the brand.
• Asking Questions: Asking brands questions about their cultural practices and their commitment to cultural appreciation.

By making informed choices, consumers can support brands that value cultural appreciation and contribute to a more culturally sensitive and responsible fashion industry. As noted in a report by Cone Communications, consumers are more likely to support companies that align with their values and demonstrate a commitment to social and environmental responsibility.

Mens-fashion.net is dedicated to bringing you the latest trends, style advice, and fashion inspiration while promoting cultural sensitivity and respect. Visit our website to explore more articles and discover how to express your personal style responsibly. Remember, fashion is a powerful tool for self-expression, but it should always be used with awareness and respect for diverse cultures.

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FAQ About Cultural Appropriation and Fashion

1. What is cultural appropriation in fashion?

Cultural appropriation in fashion involves using elements of a culture without permission, understanding, or respect, often trivializing their original meaning.

2. Why is cultural appropriation harmful?

It can devalue cultural heritage, perpetuate stereotypes, erase cultural identity, lead to economic exploitation, and cause emotional distress.

3. What is the difference between cultural appreciation and cultural appropriation?

Cultural appreciation involves learning about and respecting another culture, while appropriation involves taking elements without understanding or respect.

4. How can fashion brands avoid cultural appropriation?

By consulting with cultural experts, collaborating with diverse designers, and educating consumers.

5. What role do influencers play in cultural appropriation?

Influencers should educate themselves, avoid misrepresentation, and promote authentic brands.

6. How can consumers support brands that value cultural appreciation?

By researching brands, supporting diverse brands, and looking for authentic representation.

7. What resources are available for brands to learn about cultural sensitivity?

Cultural competency training programs, diversity consultants, and cultural organizations.

8. How does social media address cultural appropriation in fashion?

By raising awareness, holding brands accountable, and promoting dialogue.

9. What are some examples of successful cultural appreciation in men’s fashion?

Wales Bonner and BODE are examples of brands that respectfully engage with diverse cultures.

10. How can I incorporate cultural elements into my style respectfully?

By learning about the culture, avoiding stereotypes, and supporting authentic artisans.