Controversy over Jezza Scott's latest shoe

JS Roundhouse Mids.. racist?

As many of you will know, Jeremy Scott is my all time favourite designer because of his craziness and incredible unique ideas and designs. However, recent uproar over his latest shoe design for Adidas has caused the company to recall the product. So what could he possibly have done?

Check out the JS Roundhouse Mid, the latest handcuff design (as a reference to the handcuff's on a children's toy) that was announced in January. The taglines of the shoes are ones such as, 'Tighten up your style with the JS Roundhouse Mids', and 'Got a sneaker game so hot you lock your kicks to your ankles' However, only recently they have caused offence among many, who saw them as a reference to slavery, due to the chain and shackle look. Adidas defended Scott saying that, 'The design of the JS Roundhouse Mid is nothing more than the designer Jeremy Scott's outrageous and unique take on fashion and has nothing to do with slavery' and apoligised for any offence caused by them, but decided that it was best to cancel plans to make the shoes available on the market.

90's toy, My Pet Monster

Jeremy shared his inspiration for the trainers, a popular 90's toy and TV programme called My Pet Monster, which features similar colours to the design and it's own orange shackles. As the 90's trend is creeping back in, with many designers nodding to the era, you can see what Scott was trying to do. Also, he has said on numerous occasions cartoons are a huge source of inspiration for him, as you can see in his other collections.

So what do you guys think of the shoe? Personally, I really don't think Jeremy was intending to be racist at all. I see where his inspiration was derived and think it's just another one of his crazy designs. However, after the controversy I understand that they were recalled, as both Adidas and Scott have to protect their reputations. But When is it okay to talk about shackles, whips and chains? When it's in reference to sex, it seems fine, but fashion often causes controversy like this. Either way, I'm certain Jeremy meant no offence and was just trying to create a 90's inspired and cartoony design.  

What's your opinion on the issue? 


LOVE FOR JEZZA! ♥