Many celebs are currently traveling across Europe as they enjoy Fashion Week. Over the weekend, Philip Plein debuted his new collection during Milan Fashion Week, and during his show, there was a special tribute to Kobe Bryant as he unveiled his new bedazzled purple and gold 24 jerseys, which is meant to look like Kobe’s Lakers jersey.
However, many fans were not feeling his tribute and called him out for it. Aside from the jersey, which also had Plein written across the front, some people also thought that having a gold aircraft sitting in the center of the stage was tasteless as well. Granted it wasn’t a helicopter that he had on stage.
Nonetheless, Philipp responded to the backlash and said that the design for the stage was designed and planned back in November, way before the helicopter accident that claimed the lives of Kobe, Gianna, and seven others. He continued to say, “This is the reason why they were gilded helicopters on the runway. I would have clearly removed them if possible, but it was too late to replace them.”
When it comes to the backlash of the bedazzled jerseys, which retail for $2,070, and there is a purple and yellow sweatshirt version of the jersey, which goes for about $3,150, Plein revealed to USA Today that proceeds from the sales have actually gone to the Mamba & Mambacita Foundation, and the first $20,000 was sent the day before his show.
He continued to say, “This tragedy affected myself and all the world deeply and I feel that my fashion show have been the best moment to express my respect and admiration for Kobe Bryant, his daughter Gianna and his family. It is sad to see how something positive and constructive can be misinterpreted by people who obviously want to interpret negatively without even having a reason. As a matter of fact, I am really doing something to help and support the foundation. Actions speak louder than words.”
On Monday, Kobe and his daughter Gianna were celebrated at a memorial at Staples Center.
Here are what some people are saying on social media.
Roommates, what are your thoughts?
