Australian fashion label, I.AM.GIA, is facing backlash over its recent fashion show in which a model was seen wearing a bodysuit with the Arabic word for “Allah” printed repeatedly. The controversial outfit was part of the brand’s Spring/Summer 2022 collection and was showcased during the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in Sydney.
The use of religious text in fashion has always been a contentious issue, and I.AM.GIA’s latest collection has sparked outrage among the Muslim community, who have accused the brand of “blatant disrespect” and cultural appropriation. The brand has been criticized for using the word “Allah” in a frivolous manner, reducing it to a mere fashion statement.
Many Muslims have taken to social media to express their anger and disappointment over the outfit, with some calling for a boycott of the brand. The hashtag #BoycottIAMGIA has been trending on Twitter, with users sharing their thoughts and opinions on the issue.
The use of religious symbols in fashion has been a topic of debate for a long time, with some arguing that it is a form of artistic expression, while others believe that it is insensitive and disrespectful. In this case, I.AM.GIA’s use of the word “Allah” has been deemed offensive, as it is a word that holds significant religious and cultural value for Muslims.
Many have also pointed out the irony of I.AM.GIA using Islamic script in their collection, considering that the brand’s founder, Alana Pallister, has previously been accused of cultural appropriation. In 2018, the brand faced backlash for using traditional Chinese clothing and accessories in their collection, which many felt was an attempt to profit off a culture that was not their own.
The controversy surrounding I.AM.GIA’s latest collection highlights the need for greater cultural sensitivity in the fashion industry. It is essential for brands to understand the cultural and religious significance of the symbols and words they use in their collections, and to be mindful of the potential impact it may have on certain communities.
The fashion industry has often been criticized for its lack of diversity and inclusivity, with many feeling that it caters primarily to a narrow, Western-centric view of beauty and fashion. In recent years, there has been a push for greater representation and diversity in the industry, with brands and designers being called upon to create collections that are inclusive of different cultures, religions, and body types.
However, incidents like the one involving I.AM.GIA’s latest collection highlight the fact that there is still a long way to go in terms of cultural sensitivity and inclusivity in the fashion industry. Brands and designers need to be more mindful of the impact their collections may have on different communities and to work towards creating collections that are inclusive and respectful.
In response to the backlash, I.AM.GIA has issued an apology on Instagram, stating that the use of the word “Allah” was not intended to be disrespectful or offensive. The brand stated that the use of the word was “meant to be a celebration of the beauty of the Arabic language and culture,” and that they “regret any offense caused.”
However, many have criticized the brand’s apology, stating that it was not a sincere acknowledgement of the harm caused by the outfit. The use of the word “celebration” has been particularly contentious, with many feeling that it is an attempt to deflect from the issue at hand.
It remains to be seen what action I.AM.GIA will take in response to the backlash. However, this incident highlights the need for greater cultural sensitivity and inclusivity in the fashion industry, and the importance of understanding the cultural and religious significance of the symbols and words used in fashion collections.
In conclusion, I.AM.GIA’s use of the word “Allah”
