Cultural appropriation: a constant debate

A serious topic within the fashion industry, with regulatory, creative, and economic repercussions.

Within the fashion world, there are topics that can be complex, both in inspirational processes and legal consequences. One of these is cultural appropriation.

What is it and why should we know this concept?

 Well, we could start with a definition like adopting customs, practices, or symbols from a culture that is not one's own. Regularly, the concept gains strength and impact when members of a context considered privileged or dominant misuse these elements belonging to a culture in a less favorable context from an economic, social, and even historical perspective.

In the day-to-day of the fashion sector, at an international level, cases related to the concept of cultural appropriation have arisen at all levels. This includes, of course, the participation of luxury brands and even independent designers.

This has gained media attention and even impacted social media through content going viral. And in 2026, we can affirm that in the last two decades, globalization has ignited a serious debate: is cultural appropriation part of inspiration or a perfectly planned negative action?

Perhaps there is no absolute truth, since, by being connected to the world through a mobile device, having access to thousands of images on digital platforms, and knowing unimaginable places thanks to technology, fashion creatives can foster their ideas and begin a creative process thanks to endless references. This is true, but it is also fair to say that - thanks to the information and the speed with which we access it today - one can also know the origin of what has sparked any creative concept.

Amidst this debate, the invitation is very clear: to give due credit and, of course, to seek ways to collaborate fairly, formally, and equitably with those cultures or groups, seeking understanding, consent, and approval. Especially if the ultimate goal of the project within fashion will have a commercial purpose.

In Mexico, for example, it was in 2025 when a renowned international sports fashion brand found itself in the midst of a debate that led our authorities to emphasize the Constitutional Reform to Article 2, recognizing the right of indigenous peoples and communities to preserve, protect, and develop their cultural heritage, both tangible and intangible, which comprises all elements that constitute their culture and identity and, in the same vein, to recognize collective intellectual property over said heritage.

Yes, a great opportunity to give way to fair collaboration and the strengthening of an entire value chain.