NEW YORK — Gucci’s creative director broke his silence Tuesday over an $890 sweater that resembled blackface, saying racism was never his intention. Michele wrote that it was not inspired by blackface but by the late Leigh Bowery, a performance artist, club promoter and fashion designer who often used flamboyant face makeup and costumes. Regardless, Michelle said, he takes “full accountability” for the sweater, which was pulled last week amid widespread criticism. It emerged as attention in the U.S. was focused on old photos showing politicians with their faces blackened. In December, Prada said it was no longer selling a line of accessories that featured a character with brown skin and exaggerated red lips after complaints they resembled blackface.

Source: National Post February 13, 2019 00:36 UTC