A photo of a West African hunters’ jacket has taken the internet by storm, with many admiring its unique design and retro appeal.
The jacket in question, which features intricate cowry embellishments and interesting patchwork, has reportedly been priced at ($4,500) or GH¢ 52,000 approximately.
These jackets used to be worn by our traditional hunters back in the day yet, are currently being sold at mindblowing price tags. This photograph, however, has sparked a heated debate about cultural appropriation and the ethics of profiting from traditional designs.
Saw this authentic West African hunters jacket for sale in the US
Price $4,500 pic.twitter.com/T1Zsee9b2d
— Kalu Aja (@FinPlanKaluAja1) May 4, 2023
While some have praised the jacket’s beauty and craftsmanship, others have criticized the appropriation of cultural designs for profit, arguing that it is exploitative and disrespectful to the communities from which they originate.
Many have called for greater recognition and respect for the cultural significance of traditional garments, and for designers and retailers to work with local artisans and communities to create mutually beneficial partnerships.
As the saying goes there is nothing new under the sun, this debate is not new, as the fashion industry has seen a growing interest in traditional and cultural garments from around the world in recent years.
