Gucci is issuing an apology over a "wool balaclava jumper" which closely resembles blackface when worn up to the chin. It wasn't until social media users pointed out the uncanny resemblance that it occurred to the fashion house that they were once again bordering on "racist imagery," regardless of intention.
"We can confirm that the item has been immediately removed from our online store and all physical stores," Gucci expressed in a written statement posted via Twitter. "We are fully committed to increasing diversity throughout our organization and turning this incident into a powerful learning moment for the Gucci team and beyond."
Social media's successful intervention in the matter was bolstered by several high profile dissenters, the likes of which included Keisha Ka'oir, who tweeted, "Today Gucci released their Balaclava Knit Top. Sigh. Really Gucci? Really?" - herself an aficionado of all things Gucci. Amongst the dissenters currently broaching the issue online, a good majority have even called for Gucci's unilateral cancellation in 2019.
Other users were quick to point out the dubious timing of the sweater's release: smack dab in the middle of Black History Month. The Fashion World will always be the last of the "members only" clubs to ignore the effects of sensitivity and/or sensibility on the grander scale. Hit us with your thoughts in the comment section below.