Kobe Bryant Tribute Controversy: Philipp Plein Clarifies
The fashion designer was heavily criticized recently
Kobe Bryant’s death was one of the most tragic incidents of recent times. The untimely death of the sports star, his daughter and seven others in a helicopter crash saddened the whole world and tributes poured in from all over the globe. One of those tributes, the Kobe Bryant tribute by Philipp Plein was criticized heavily.
It began during the Milan fashion week where the designer launched the Fall/Winter presentation. The show featured sweatshirts and jerseys that were inspired by Los Angeles Lakers. The clothes included jerseys riddled with Swarovski crystals that were marked with Bryant’s number. Another controversial point was the appearance of a Plein-branded gold helicopter.
Shortly after Kobe Bryant memorial service, the launch of Plein’s garments made people think how insensitive he is. They expressed their anger via Twitter and Instagram. The designer was blamed for being indifferent and making money from a tragedy.
Philipp Plein made two gold helicopters for his show today, which falls 27 days after Kobe died in a helicopter crash
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BUT DONT WORRY he whipped up a bunch of Swarovski Kobe jerseys (with “Plein” written on them??) so it’s cool.
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Fuck you, Philipp. pic.twitter.com/UHjbubXuG9— Bliss Foster (@BlissFoster) February 23, 2020
After Kobe Bryant tribute controversy gained a lot of media attention, Plein clarified his stance while talking to Vogue. He said that the appearance of gold-plated helicopters couldn’t be stopped as things were not in his hands. He said “If I would have known what happened, after the accident, I would not have put helicopters there… I couldn’t cancel the helicopters.”
The designer also stressed on the fact that the proceeds from the Kobe Bryant tribute collection’s sale would go to Mamba and Mambacita Sports foundation. The clothes went on sale on the website as soon as the show ended.
Releasing an official statement on the Kobe Bryant tribute controversy, Plein also shared his intention of expressing respect and admiration for Kobe. He said “I feel that my fashion show have been the best moment to express my respect and admiration. It is sad to see how something positive and constructive can be misinterpreted….”
From these statements, it is clear that Plein doesn’t want to admit his mistake and apologize for it. He wants to get all the media attention he can get. In the end, it’s not about Kobe Bryant tribute, for the designer, it’s all about him, his wants and his wishes. It’s time someone told the designer the beauty of donating money anonymously and the joy it brings.
