Luxury fashion has always walked a thin line between inspiration and appropriation. In recent years, brands such as Prada and Ralph Lauren faced criticism for incorporating Indian elements into their designs, including Kolhapuri-style footwear, and traditional Indian jhumkas without acknowledging the origins. The latest controversy involves Ralph Lauren’s Bandhini print cotton skirt. The skirt is priced at Rs 44800 and comes in “Tie Dye Multi”. The product description highlights the visual appeal of the skirt, noting that it is “beautifully draped” and features a “vibrant design inspired by traditional Bandhini tie-dye techniques and motifs.”While the description references “Bandhini tie-dye techniques,” it stops short of explicitly mentioning India, the craft’s origin, or the artisan communities associated with it.This subtle omission has become the crux of the issue, with netizens questioning whether vague acknowledgement of inspiration is enough, especially when the design language is so clearly rooted in a specific cultural tradition.Screengrab of various comments (Photo: Instagram/viralbhayani)Bandhini skirt by Ralph Lauren (Photo: Website/ralphlauren.global)Why Bandhani is more than just a ‘tie-dye technique’Bandhani, also known as Bandhej, is one of India’s oldest textile arts, with a history that dates back centuries. The craft involves painstakingly knotting thousands of tiny little knots onto fabric before dying it. This creates dotted patterns. Story continues below this advertisement. Beyond aesthetics, Bandhani has a cultural and emotional significance. It is worn at weddings, festivals and auspicious events. ‘You mean stole’: Ralph Lauren faces backlash over South Asian jhumkas at Paris Fashion WeekWhere authentic Bandhani comes from in IndiaThere are several places in India where Bandhani can be seen in its truest form. In Gujarat’s Jamnagar, and Bhuj, artisans have a reputation for their intricate work and traditional motifs. From local bazaars to handloom stores, authentic Bandhani items, including sarees, dupattas, and skirts, can be found at prices that directly benefit artisan communities. Story continues below this advertisement. The controversy surrounding the Bandhani skirt involving the American fashion brand goes beyond one product. The controversy over the Bandhani skirt is not just about a single product. It reflects a shift in consumer consciousness, as buyers are now interested in ethical practices and origin stories, in addition to design. Fashion is being pushed towards a more responsible engagement with cultural heritage, whether through collaborations, storytelling or proper attribution.
Click here to join our WhatsApp Channel for more lifestyle news. You can also follow us on Instagram.
