Philipp Plein is already one of the boldest names in fashion, but now he faces backlash for including a Kobe Bryant tribute during his fall/winter 2020 presentation in Milan.
The show featured Lakers’ inspired jerseys and sweatshirts, including Swarovksi crystal jerseys marked with Bryant’s number.
The show has been dubbed ‘distasteful’ by those who see Plein’s efforts as less of a tribute and more as a move to sell his collection. The fact the show featured two golden helicopters was faced more fan backlash.
Plein has not responded to the criticism, but said on Instagram that the proceeds from the collection will go to the Mamba and Mambacita Sports Foundation.
Plein recruited celebrities including Jada Pinkett-Smith and models – such as Olivia Culpo – for the collection which went on sale just after the show. Typa also performed at the event.
“Philipp Plein made two gold helicopters for his show today, which falls 27 days after Kobe died in a helicopter crash. BUT DONT WORRY he whipped up a bunch of Swarovski Kobe jerseys (with “Plein” written on them??) so it’s cool,” said one angry Twitter user.
Another said the collection was, “distasteful, tacky & material waste. Philipp Plein who has so long been making clothing that adds nothing but clutter to the fashion landscape has decided to include gold helicopters along with his crystal basketball jerseys after the passing of Kobe & Gianna Bryant. It’s disgusting.”
