Gucci apologises for 'blackface' sweater after backlash

Italian luxury brand Gucci has released an apology after its “blackface” balaclava sweater sparked a huge reaction online.

Posting on Twitter, the brand said it “deeply apologises” for the offence caused by the garment.

The statement also confirmed the garment has been removed online and from all physical stores.

The label landed in hot water with social media users after some questioned its “Balaclava knit top black,” which retails at $890. Many pointed out that the sweater resembles blackface.

The sweater has a balaclava attached near the wearer’s neck that can be brought up to cover the bottom half of the face. It then has a hole cut around the mouth and features oversized red lips, which is common in depictions of blackface caricatures.

“Balaclava knit top by Gucci. Happy Black History Month y’all,” one Twitter user pointed shared.

The same Twitter user then also shared an accessory that seems to match perfectly with the top, which covers the wearer’s eyes. Essentially, you can have a “chic classic [blackface] moment without the mess of paint.”

A balaclava, or a balaclava helmet, is a form of clothing that covers much of a person’s face, usually except for the eyes. While they are commonly used for winter sports such as skiing and snowmobiling, they are often worn by the military and police, specifically SWAT and other special forces, to conceal their identity.

Gucci did not immediately respond to Yahoo Lifestyle’s request for comment.

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