A Ralph Lauren runway presentation during Paris Fashion Week has triggered widespread backlash after models wore dangling, bell-shaped earrings strikingly similar to traditional Indian jhumkas. Social media erupted with accusations of cultural appropriation, as the brand labeled the pieces merely as “vintage accessories” without crediting their South Asian roots.
Runway Details and Initial Reactions
The Fall/Winter 2026 collection emphasized Ralph Lauren’s polished tailoring, long jackets, and boots, but the silver earrings—featuring domed shapes and intricate drops—drew sharp focus. Photos and videos went viral, with users pointing out the resemblance to jhumkas, a staple in Indian jewelry rooted in regional craftsmanship.
Netizens criticized the omission: one commented, “He’s okay crediting Native American artists but not South Asians,” while others demanded, “Why not appreciate India?” The brand’s captions highlighted Native American collaborators but ignored Indian heritage, fueling claims of selective acknowledgment.
Pattern of Western Brands and Indian Crafts
This incident echoes prior controversies where luxury houses adopted Indian elements sans credit. Prada’s 2025 Milan show featured sandals mimicking Kolhapuri chappals—a GI-tagged Maharashtra craft—priced over Rs 1 lakh versus local Rs 400 pairs, prompting artisan protests and a brand visit after backlash.
Dior has faced similar scrutiny, including a 2025 $200,000 Mukaish-embroidered coat using Indian techniques without artisan nods, and a 2018 print accused of copying Delhi’s People Tree design, worn by Sonam Kapoor.
Gucci drew ire for a 2021 “kaftan” kurta resembling traditional kurtas and 2018 Sikh turbans on runways, highlighting ongoing debates on inspiration versus exploitation in global fashion.
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