European resort brands
"Moroccan / Ibiza Maxi Slip"
European resort brands
- Item
- "Moroccan / Ibiza Maxi Slip"
- Retail
- $$
- Spin
- ""Moroccan-inspired kaftan""
European resort brands have marketed the Anarkali as a 'Moroccan-inspired kaftan' or 'Ibiza maxi slip'. These garments, visually identical to the traditional Indian tunic, are sold globally without acknowledging their true origin. This rebranding disconnects the design from its cultural roots, presenting it as a generic resort wear item rather than a specific Indian craft.
अनारकली
Anarkali
- Region
- North India
- True Value
- ₹1,800≈ $22
- Category
- 07 · Runway Plagiarism
The Anarkali, a flared, floor-length, high-waisted tunic, is a traditional garment from North India. This elegant silhouette is a staple in Indian fashion, often worn for celebrations and formal occasions. Its graceful design and flowing fabric are deeply rooted in the region's cultural heritage, symbolizing beauty and sophistication.
FX reference: 1 USD ≈ ₹83 — for comparison only
The Story
Across various European resort brands, flared, floor-length, high-waisted tunics are marketed as "Moroccan-inspired kaftans" or "Ibiza maxi slips." These garments, sold at a significant markup, are presented as exotic resort wear, often without any reference to their true cultural origins. The retail prices for these items are typically in the mid-range.
The garment in question is the Anarkali (अनारकली), a traditional Indian dress originating from North India. This elegant attire is characterized by its long, frock-style top and a slim fitted bottom, often featuring intricate embroidery and rich fabrics. It is a staple in Indian formal wear, celebrated for its graceful silhouette and historical significance, frequently worn during celebrations and special occasions. The Anarkali is a testament to centuries of Indian textile artistry and design.
The appropriation of the Anarkali has been noted by cultural observers and craft advocates, who point out the mislabeling of these garments as "Moroccan kaftans" or "Ibiza maxi slips." The primary objection centers on the complete erasure of the Anarkali's Indian heritage and the failure to credit the originating culture. This practice not only misinforms consumers but also undermines the value of the original craft, which has a fair value of approximately ₹1,800.
Flared, floor-length, high-waisted tunics — the Anarkali — sold across Europe as Moroccan kaftans or Ibiza maxi slips.
Reporting forthcoming