Zara deletes ‘The Jacket’ pictures after Gaza comparisons
Clothing Outlet Zara Removes Controversial Photos from Social Media
Clothing outlet Zara has taken down photos from its social media page after facing backlash and comparisons to the Israel-Hamas conflict. The images were part of a marketing campaign called “The Jacket” and featured supermodel Kristen McMenamy surrounded by boxes, dismembered mannequins, and debris.
Zara released a statement clarifying that the campaign was planned before the Hamas attacks and that the use of “unfinished sculptures” was meant to showcase the craftsmanship of their garments in an artistic context.
“Unfortunately, some customers felt offended by these images, which have now been removed, and saw in them something far from what was intended when they were created,” the statement read. “Zara regrets that misunderstanding and we reaffirm our deep respect towards everyone.”
The Washington Examiner was informed that the ad campaign had been planned in advance and that photoshopped images were circulating online, falsely depicting the attacks in Gaza. However, these images were not created by Zara.
Prior to removing the photos from social media, Zara also took them down from the front page of their website.
The initial comparisons between the ad photos and the Gaza attacks were made by social media users, leading to calls for a boycott of Zara. The fashion outlet is not the only retailer facing potential boycott threats in the aftermath of the Israel-Hamas conflict, with Starbucks and McDonald’s also being targeted.
How did Zara respond to the backlash and criticism received for their campaign?
Clothing outlet Zara recently faced controversy and backlash over photos that were featured in its marketing campaign named “The Jacket.” The campaign, which showcased supermodel Kristen McMenamy surrounded by dismembered mannequins, boxes, and debris, drew comparisons and criticism related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. As a result of the negative reception, Zara promptly removed the contentious images from its social media platforms.
In response to the controversy, Zara released a statement clarifying that the campaign had been planned prior to the Hamas attacks and that the use of “unfinished sculptures” was intended to highlight the craftsmanship of their products in an artistic context. However, some customers found the images offensive and inappropriately linked them to the conflict, leading to their swift removal. Zara expressed regret over the misunderstanding and reiterated its respect for everyone.
To further complicate matters, it was revealed that photoshopped images falsely depicting the attacks in Gaza were circulating online. Nevertheless, it was clarified that these images were not created by Zara. The company’s decision to remove the photos from its social media and website occurred after they were initially taken down from the front page of the website.
The controversy surrounding Zara’s ad campaign started when social media users drew parallels between the photos and the Gaza attacks. The ensuing uproar led to calls for a boycott of the fashion retailer. However, it is worth noting that Zara is not the only company facing potential boycott threats in the aftermath of the Israel-Hamas conflict, as other big names like Starbucks and McDonald’s have also been targeted.
The incident serves as a reminder of the power of social media and the potential for misinterpretation. Zara’s attempt to showcase its products through an artistic lens inadvertently led to an unintended association with a highly sensitive and volatile geopolitical situation. The swift response from the company, with the removal of the images and a sincere apology, demonstrates its commitment to rectifying the situation and maintaining respect for its customers.
In conclusion, Zara’s removal of the controversial photos from its social media platforms and website, coupled with an apology, represents its understanding of the offense caused and its eagerness to address the concerns raised by its customers. This incident underscores the need for companies to be vigilant and attuned to the sensitivities of their audience, especially in an interconnected world where the impact of their actions can be immediate and far-reaching.
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