Kalotaszeg Folk Embroidery Pattern Stolen by Fast Fashion Brand Mango
Controversy over Cultural Appropriation: Spanish Fashion Brand Under Fire for Using Hungarian Embroidery Pattern
In a recent Instagram post, La Blouse Roumaine called out the Spanish fast fashion brand Mango for using a complex folk embroidery pattern developed by the Hungarian community living in the Kalotaszeg region. The post highlighted the rich traditions of the Hungarian community in Ţara Călatei – Kalotaszeg, Transylvania, Romania, from which the intricate design originates.
The unique embroidery known as “Írásos” is a signature of Kalotaszeg, characterized by wide stitches that form decorative patterns such as tulips, roses, leaves, and birds. La Blouse Roumaine emphasized the importance of recognizing and crediting traditional art, especially when it comes from living communities that have preserved these techniques for generations.
Kalotaszeg, a region in Romania with a solid Hungarian majority, is renowned for its embroidery, folk dances, and folk music that are integral parts of the Hungarian cultural heritage. The call for giving credit to this unique cultural treasure has sparked a conversation around cultural appropriation and the need to respect and celebrate diverse heritage.
As debates on cultural appropriation continue to arise in the fashion industry, it is essential for brands like Mango to acknowledge and honor the origins of the designs they incorporate into their collections. By giving credit to the communities that have carried forward these traditional arts, brands can promote cultural diversity and appreciation in the world of fashion.
For those interested in learning more about Hungarian folk costumes and dances, La Blouse Roumaine provided links to related articles. The controversy serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and celebrating the cultural heritage and contributions of different communities around the world.
