Balenciaga issues apology over ‘inappropriate’ holiday campaign featuring children holding bondage teddy bears

French fashion brand Balenciaga was in for some significant backlash from social media users with their new holiday advertisement campaign.

The brand featured children carrying their highly fashionable bear bags including harnesses. This was considered highly “inappropriate” by most people who criticised Balenciaga. Many complained that the advertisement was disgusting and over-sexualised, leaving a sour taste.

Balenciaga immediately apologised for the ad and recalled the campaign in their statement. They said they should never have taken children for their campaign and that they have removed the advertisements from wherever they have featured them. The brand informed that the campaign would be discontinued with immediate effect.


The second advertisement showed an hourglass bag on a table with court documents discussing child pornography cases. This kind of pushed netizens' anger beyond limits as it was in poor taste. Balenciaga immediately posted on their Instagram stories within two hours of the first one that they were extremely sorry and would be taking strong action against whoever was responsible. The brand denied having approved these advertisements and said legal action would be taken against the perpetrators. The brand went on to say that they are against child pornography and harm to children. They only wish to promote child safety and their well-being. They had no intention of hurting sentiments in any way and seriously condemned all forms of child abuse.



Netizens condemned the low level of the "shock factor" the brand was trying to create, but this was beyond disgusting. People hoped Kim Kardashian would make a statement along with Bella Hadid, both celebrities who promote the brand.

FAQs:

1. When did Balenciaga start as a company?
   1919
2. Who began Balenciaga?
   Cristobal Balenciaga-Designer