Swimwear brand’s ‘shocking’ bikini stunt at Miami Swim Week slammed

A swimwear brand has been accused of an “appalling and disrespectful” act, with many labelling it “horrifying”.

A popular swimwear brand has been accused of cultural appropriation after dressing one of its models in a Native American headdress during Miami Swim Week.

Videos filmed during the Amarotto Swimwear show of the annual fashion event have left many upset after the clips showed one model sporting a Native American war bonnet.

The feathered headgear is traditionally worn by male leaders of the American Plains Indians Nations who have earned a place of great respect in their tribe.

Originally they were sometimes worn into battle, but they are now primarily used for ceremonial occasions, and is a well-known symbol of strength and bravery to the indigenous people of North America.

Using an ethnic minority’s traditional culture as novelty clothing, or to promote a brand and ultimately profit from, from is widely considered “offensive”.

It’s because of this, that the imagery of a model wearing a leopard print one-piece alongside the Native American headdress has sparked anger online, with many labelling it “horrifying”.

“Absolutely appalling and disrespectful. Please, please, PLEASE stop doing this. I understand our culture is beautiful but it is OUR culture. And should be treated with respect. Despite ‘intentions’ it is wrong, everyone knows it. So stop doing it,” one person wrote on Instagram.

“This is wildly inappropriate to do with indigenous culture,” declared another.

As one stated: “I’m shocked that this was approved. The designer should be ashamed of herself for being so uncreative and uneducated about Tribal Regalia. A war bonnet is NOT meant for the runway.”

News.com.au has contacted Amarotto Swimwear for comment.

A swimwear brand has been slammed for its ‘shocking’ bikini stunt at Miami Swim Week 2024. Picture: Getty

A model walked the runway in a leopard print one-piece while wearing a Native American headdress. Picture: Getty

Others called for the brand, which describes its pieces as “handmade by artistians in Colombia”, to apologise, adding “there’s absolutely no excuse” for the stunt.

“Cultural appropriation is a BIG NO in 2024,” raged one.

“This is offensive as hell. If it’s not your culture, don’t pretend it is,” another added.

As one revealed they would boycott the swimwear brand, declaring they could “never” support it.

“To do this in 2024 is frankly embarrassing,” one chipped in.

“2005 called they want their cultural appropriation (and tackiness) back,” mused another.

Meanwhile one boiled over, writing: “It’s giving coloniser energy.”