The Spanish fashion brand Zara has issued an apology for the advertising campaign for her latest winter collection titled ‘Zara Atelier… Collection-4… The Jacket’ which became controversial featured dummies wrapped in white covers and surrounded by rubble.
After receiving backlash from pro-Palestinian activists the fashion retailer decided to withdraw the remaining pictures after receiving severe criticism from the public.
Zara clarified that the campaign, conceptualized in July and photographed in September, predated the October conflict and aimed to portray unfinished sculptures in a sculptor’s studio. The Atelier collection, despite the removal of campaign posts, remains available in Zara stores. Zara's parent company, Inditex, has ensured the deletion of campaign photos from all platforms.
They expressed regret for the ‘misunderstanding’ and shared a post on its Instagram handle that reads:
“After listening to comments regarding the latest Zara atelier campaign ‘The Jacket’… we would like to share the following with our customers:
the campaign, which was conceived in July and photographed in September, presents a series of images of unfinished sculptures in a sculptor's studio and was created with the sole purpose of showcasing craft-made 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. Zara regrets that misunderstanding and we reaffirm our deep respect towards everyone.”
The hashtag #BoycottZara gained traction on social media as Pakistani celebrities including Ushna Shah, Mishi Khan, Sajal Aly, and Sanam Saeed raised their concerns regarding the matter.
Pakistani actor Sanam Saeed took to her Instagram stories and wrote:
“We are not helpless, we have the power to make a difference and hit back where it hurts! That should be the end of Zara for all of us!”
Actress Sajal Aly also endorsed the call and shared a reel to her Instagram story, denouncing the fast fashion label.
“Shame on you Zara” she added.
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