Ralph Lauren’s 'Zardozi' Gown Starts India Credit Debate After Fendi, Prada | Firstpost America

By Firstpost

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American fashion brand Ralph Lauren is facing criticism over an embroidered deep-pink gown showcased at New York Fashion Week. Social media users have accused the brand of using Indian craftsmanship without acknowledging its cultural roots. The embroidery has been compared to Zardozi, a centuries-old metalwork tradition with Persian origins that became deeply associated with India during the Mughal era. The controversy comes after earlier criticism over Bandhani-inspired designs and traditional jhumka earrings. In this video, Firstpost explains the Zardozi tradition, the debate over cultural appropriation and why credit matters when luxury fashion draws from traditional crafts. Cary Johnston brings you the details on Firstpost America. TIME STAMP: 00:00 – Introduction: Luxury Fashion & Cultural Credit 00:23 – Ralph Lauren's Gown at NYFW & Online Backlash 01:04 – Missing Credit & "Beaded Bronze" Description 01:39 – What is Zardozi? History & GI Tag 02:39 – Previous Controversies: Ban

Tags: Ralph Lauren, Ralph Lauren Zardozi, Zardozi, Indian craftsmanship, Indian artisans, Indian fashion, Indian heritage, cultural appropriation, luxury fashion, Ralph Lauren controversy, Ralph Lauren India, New York Fashion Week, NYFW 2026, Indian embroidery, traditional Indian crafts, Mughal era crafts, metalwork embroidery, Zardozi India, Fendi controversy, Bandhani