Kim Kardashian Decides to Rename Her Business After Extreme Backlash

Kim Kardashian has created quite the commotion over a name she had wanted for her new brand.

The reality TV star and entrepreneur had chosen the name “Kimono” for her new shape-ware brand but had been met with major backlash. Some have even accused her of cultural appropriation.

On Monday Kim took to her social media to say that she would rename the brand and that the new name would be announced “soon.”

The brand, which Kim has said has been in a project of hers for the past year, is similar to Spanx and will offer form-fitting body suits to be worn under garments.

The backlash against the name “Kimono” was so strong that even the mayor of Japan’s former capital city Kyoto, Daisaku Kadokawa, posted a letter to Kardashian on his Facebook page. He wrote, “I am writing this letter to convey our thoughts on Kimono and ask you to re-consider your decision of using the name Kimono in your trademark.”

“Kimono is a traditional ethnic dress fostered in our rich nature and history with our predecessors’ tireless endeavours and studies, and it is a culture that has been cherished and passed down with care in our living. … I would like you to visit Kyoto, where many Japanese cultures including Kimono have been cherished, to experience the essence of Kimono Culture and understand our thoughts and our strong wish.”

“I am always listening, learning and growing — I so appreciate the passion and varied perspectives that people bring to me,” Kim said on Monday. “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.”