Early last week we were at talking about the appropriateness of Rodarte's aboriginal prints but now the focus is on references to Navajo tribal culture. Over the past few season everyone from Proenza Schouler to Isabel Marant has tapped into their cultural references and as you would expect, the high street has picked up on this and gone to town. It's this misappropriation of the 'Navajo' name and their culture, though, which has been the source of litigation.
“We are very proud of our name, Navajo,” Ben Shelly, Navajo Nation president, said when referring to a recent legal challenge to Urban Outfitters use of the Navajo trademark and name. “To be used in this kind of fashion, I’m very unhappy with it,” he continued referring to the designers reinterpreting their culture. “The fame or reputation of the Navajo name and marks is such that, when defendant uses the ‘Navajo’ and ‘Navaho’ marks with its goods and services, a connection with the Navajo Nation is falsely presumed,” the suit alleged.
With its lower-priced Madras line, APC is more affordable than ever. Having just started stocking the line at American high street store Urban Outfitters, the brand's greatest hits can be found amongst the collection.
Plaid print skirts, pegged trousers, marled wool sweaters and Peter Pan collar blouses are on the agenda. Bargain prices are on offer if you take a look through the Fall offering. From $105 to $295, you can deck yourself from head to toe without breaking the bank. One of the must haves of the collection is a navy miniskirt featuring a squirrel and rabbit print for a reasonable $135.
