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Marjon Carlos of Fusion is reporting that Timberland has severed ties with French fashion designer Jean Touitou over his use of the N-word during his A.P.C. Fall menswear show in Paris. A.P.C. founder Touitou “glibly” dropped the N-word multiple times to describe his “ghetto signifiers” consisting of sweatpants, oversized top coats and Timberlands. According to the article, Timberland was not very happy with Touitou’s controversial remarks or creative direction and have severed ties with the designer. Carlos reports:
“Yesterday we became aware of the offensive remarks made by Jean Touitou during his A.P.C. Fall Menswear show in Paris. We have chosen to immediately terminate our involvement with the A.P.C. brand, including the footwear collaboration we had planned for this fall.
Simply stated, this kind of language and approach is in complete contrast with our values. Timberland seeks to collaborate with designers and brands who are at the forefront of lifestyle trends; equally important, they must also share our values. We will not tolerate offensive language or racial slurs of any kind being associated with the Timberland brand.”
Touitou says that Kanye West, who was mentioned in the remarks, approved of his creative vision and supported the idea. Nonetheless, the embattled designer has issued an apology:
“’When describing our brand’s latest collaboration, I spoke recklessly using terms that were both ignorant and offensive,’ Touitou said in a written statement. ‘I apologize and am deeply regretful for my poor choice of words, which are in no way a reflection of my personal views.’”
Read more at Fusion.net or The Root.com.
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