Last week, rising designer Autumn Adeigbo called Jeffrey Campbell for dropping his Fall 21 shoe design that had yet to be released to the market. As part of her new collection, Adeigbo, a black female entrepreneur, designed an ankle strap clog that included her matching crystal buckles. Then, a similar style by Jeffrey Campbell was made available at retailers, including Nordstrom.

“For an established company like Jeffrey Campbell to get rid of a still small brand owned by a black woman, its ‘commitment to black lives and an equal future for all’ felt like lip service,” Adeigbo said. at Diet Prada. “They could have asked me for a collaboration. Why steal my design and “get it done fast” in stores before my own production hits the shelves? “

After the situation came to light on Diet Prada’s Instagram, Nordstrom – wwho wears Adeigbo accessories – has withdrawn the product.

“When we learned of this situation, we immediately returned any remaining product. We contacted Autumn directly, ”a Nordstrom spokesperson told FN. “We respect independent creativity and are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive retail experience. “

Adeigbo also said Jeffrey Campbell reached out to strike up a conversation while removing the style from stores.

“It’s not about me and it’s not about my brand. This is the injustice of the stolen highly creative black designers and business leaders, especially the companies who pledged to create a more level playing field during the BLM when it was “popular” to do so. She wrote on Instagram on Monday.

“As a designer, I know very well that the brand may not have the intention of bringing down another brand. All it takes is a ‘bad apple’ on the design team to squeeze in a design that isn’t original when the rest of the team isn’t in the know, ”he said. Adeigbo continued in his article. “I want to put this on everyone’s radar and give that thanks to Jeffrey Campbell. In fashion, we all tend to borrow from each other. This is where the “trends” come from. To deny this fact would be quite simply wrong. I am open to learning, talking about it and growing through it.

Adeigbo, who founded his eponymous brand in 2016, is known for their colorful, eco-friendly dresses and ensembles. The rising designer has caught the attention of big fashion brands such as Tommy Hilfiger and Tory Burch. (In 2019, she was named a Tory Burch Fellow of the Tory Burch Foundation.) Other famous fans include Mindy Kaling, Gabrielle Union, Kerry Washington, and Busy Philipps. The latter commented on the situation on Adeigbo’s Instagram, writing: “F — k yes. I kind of missed the drama but I’m looking forward to my pair.

Subsequently, the designer’s shoes sold out within one day, and the brand recorded the highest single-day sales day this year, Adeigbo said.

FN asked for a comment.