Sometimes phrases have unwanted connotations. While it may be just a play on words referencing the common fashion phrase on what’s in style or the popular Netflix series, “Orange Is the New Black,” Spanish retailer Zara has experienced backlash on possible racial undertones of its printed white tee with “White Is the New Black” printed across the chest in black block letters.
A fashion blogger that many sources are crediting with first reporting on the shirt has taken down the post on the controversial shirt. It is not clear if Zara is selling the hot-button item currently, and the shirt does not appear on its website.
Zara, which also has a “Leopard Is the New Black” T-shirt (see both shirts at Daily Mail), has not commented on the shirt, according to the The Huffington Post. The publication detailed how Zara is only the most recent to be caught up in T-shirt controversy.
“Earlier this year, H&M was forced to pull a Star of David skull shirt from their shelves, after receiving complaints from shoppers and others online,” according to The Huffington Post. “Urban Outfitters also once tried to sell tees with the phrase, “Eat Less,” printed on them. And we can’t forget HBC’s attempt to sell Christopher Lee Sauve’s “Nothing Tastes As Good As Skinny Feels” design.”
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