On August 22nd, Vogue has made one of the biggest mistakes ever, it's a good thing they have a good Public Relations team. I have been a fan of Vogue, but why would you name a pair of earrings "Slave Earrings?" I understand that it was a glamorized version of the slave trade for the purpose of affirming a fashion trend.
Is it lost in translation like editor-in-chief Franca Sozaani says? Race relations in the United States are so controversial, I'm not too sure our European counterparts completely understand the idea of racial sensitivity in editorial.
Though the true reason for the publishing of Vogue's 'slave earrings' story is still unknown, I choose to give them a second chance. As controversial as the article was, can we completely negate the positive influence the franchise has given to minorities in the fashion world? For not only blacks, but also curvy women, Vogue Italia has served as a trailblazing high fashion media outlet giving voice and recognition to otherwise alienated and underserved groups. We have every right to be angry and demand the actions be taken to make sure these blunders aren't habitual.
But in the same token, realize that like humans, media outlets are complex creatures with many moving parts. They have successes and failures. Sometimes they please, and other times they offend. Does one negative story negate the existence of hundreds of positive ones? Just like many of us have done wrong and were graciously forgiven, shouldn't we give Vogue Italia the same chance?
