Kim Kardashian has issued an apology after being accused of 'cultural appropriation' with her new shapewear venture.
The 38-year-old Keeping Up With The Kardashians star launched her new products last week but she was taken to task on social media for naming the range Kimono.
Kim had launched the products last week, announcing their arrival on Twitter : "Finally I can share with you guys this project that I have been developing for the last year.
"I’ve been passionate about this for 15 years. Kimono is my take on shapewear and solutions for women that actually work."
But Twitter users accused Kim of "butchering Japanese culture," and overlooking hundreds of years of history of the Japanese garment.
Japanese-American woman Yuka Ohishi, told the BBC: "We wear kimonos to celebrate health, growth of children, engagements, marriages, graduations, at funerals.
"It's celebratory wear and passed on in families through the generations.
"This shapewear doesn't even resemble a kimono - she just chose a word that has Kim in it - there's no respect to what the garment actually means in our culture."
The reality star has now vowed to rename the products following the backlash.
The mother-of-four wrote on Twitter: "Being an entrepreneur and my own boss has been one of the most rewarding challenges I’ve been blessed with in my life.
"What’s made it possible for me after all of these years has been the direct line of communication with my fans and the public.
"I am always listening, learning and growing – I so appreciate the passion and varied perspectives that people bring to me. When I announced the name of my shapewear line, I did so with the best intentions in mind.
"My brands and products are built with inclusivity and diversity at their core and after careful thought and consideration, I will be launching my Solutionwear brand under a new name.
"I will be in touch soon. Thank you for your understanding and support always."
Kim had filed trademarks for Kimono, Kimono Body, Kimono Intimates and Kimono World, but with her latest announcement, will now be changing the names.
Do you have a story to sell? Get in touch with us at webcelebs@trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 33033.
