Why People Are Mad At Kim Kardashian For Her New Shapewear Collection

'It's outright culturally offensive'

Bertrand Rindoff PetroffGetty Images

It's not surprising that spanx aficionado and businesswoman across many platformsKim Kardashian West decided to release her own shapewear range.

However, the name of her latest collection has been met with both bewilderment and resistance.

The reality star previewed the new 'Kimono' collection on Wednesday, presenting a mix of sculpting briefs, shorts, bras and bodies in a range of nude shades that Kardashian explained she has been working on for the past year.

While the actual shapewear received some praise on social media, many people took umbrage with the name of the collection.

A kimono is a traditional Japanese garment, worn by both women and men, dating back to the 16th century. It is characterised by being shoulder-covering, having long sleeves, traditionally made with silk (which can be very expensive) and tied with a sash. Nowadays, it's mostly worn in Japan on special occasions such as family events.

Women celebrating the Coming-of-Age-Day ceremony in Tokyo

Immediately, people from Japan and of Japanese heritage questioned why Kardashian would give her products a name that bears no resemblance to what a kimono actually is, and consequently ignores its cultural significance.

Others vented their frustrations through the #KimOhNo hashtag and pleaded with the businesswoman to reconsider the name of her new venture.

Even the Victoria & Albert Museum got involved and attempted to educate Kardashian West and others on the history and culture of the kimono:

It has also been reported that Kardashian West attempted to trademark Kimono for her business venture.

ELLE UK has approached a representative for Kardashian West for comment.