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Racist? See the Controversial Victoria's Secret Outfit Yanked From 2012 Fashion Show

Racist? See the Controversial Victoria's Secret Outfit Yanked From 2012 Fashion Show

"Use of the symbols, [culture], art, traditional dress of a culture you don't care enough to learn about is EXPLOITATION"

Native American controversies have become something of a running theme of 2012, it seems.  After it was revealed that newly-elected Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) claimed such heritage on a number of college and job applications, she was even dubbed "Fauxcahontas" by some in the media.

Warren's tall tales ended up not bothering the majority of Massachusetts residents, but there's a new Native American controversy on the horizon-- and it's from the last place you would expect.

The annual Victoria's Secret fashion show.

Yes, the well-known supplier of women's garments is under fire for an outfit inspired by Native American heritage, with some shouting cries of "racism."

Model Karlie Kloss was seen in the fashion show last week with a massive headdress that reached the floor, turquoise jewelry, animal print clothing and tasseled heels.

Here are some pictures from the event:

(Photo: Getty Images)

(Photo: Getty Images)

"Use of the symbols, [culture], art, traditional dress of a culture you don't care enough to learn about is EXPLOITATION," one Huffington Post commenter vented.  Another added: "Not only is our Sacred Wabonnet being paraded by a bone thin model wearing a smile and [leopard] underwear, the Squash [Blossom] necklace she wears is Sacred to the Dine Navajo people... Genocide and assimilation continues. We are looking for a heartfelt public apology from VS."

It wasn't long before Victoria's Secret did just that, not only apologizing but pulling the look from future broadcasting and advertisements.

The company said in a statement on Sunday, via The Huffington Post:

"We are sorry that the Native American headdress replica used in our recent fashion show has upset individuals. We sincerely apologize as we absolutely had no intention to offend anyone. Out of respect, we will not be including the outfit in any broadcast, marketing materials nor in any other way."

Do you think the uproar is understandable, or are people starting to cry "racist" a little too often?

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