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Kim Kardashian Stands By Kimono Brand Name Despite Cries Of Cultural Appropriation

Negative reaction to the name of the shapewear line has inspired the hashtag #KimOhNo.

Kim Kardashian is responding to the cries of cultural appropriation since she announced her new shapewear line, Kimono.

The brand name is not only a sort of pun on Kardashian’s first name, it’s also a reference to a traditional silk robe in Japan.

Since Kardashian has been accused before of cultural appropriation, like when she wore Fulani braids, sported an Indian headpiece and appeared to be in blackface, it’s no surprise many people assumed she was doing it again with Kimono.

Kardashian addressed the accusations by telling The New York Times she has no plans “to design or release any garments that would in any way resemble or dishonor the traditional garment.”

She added: “I understand and have deep respect for the significance of the kimono in Japanese culture.”

But she does not plan to change the name.

The reality TV star also claims that Kimono is “built with inclusivity and diversity at its core” and that she’s “incredibly proud of what’s to come.”

However, many people aren’t happy with Kardashian’s new brand, which is why #KimOhNo became a trending hashtag on Thursday.

By Thursday afternoon, a Change.org petition condemning the name had attracted more than 13,000 signatures.

“I do not wish to share the word with an underwear brand,” the petition says. “‘Kimono’ means ‘clothing’ in Japanese.”

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This article exists as part of the online archive for HuffPost India, which closed in 2020. Some features are no longer enabled. If you have questions or concerns about this article, please contact indiasupport@huffpost.com.