Essence Magazine's New Fashion Director Sparks Controversy

Filed Under: Icky Icky Poo Fashion Smashion Spread 'Em

Starting this September, Ellianna Placas will be the new fashion director of Essence magazine.

Unfortunately for her, many readers and supporters of the publication are upset because she's white.

Writer Michaela Angela Davis tweeted her disappoint with mag's new hire

It is with a heavy heavy heart I have learned that Essence magazine has engaged a white fashion director, this hurts, literally, spiritually.

Davis later wrote on her Facebook page:

"If there were balance in the industry; if we didn't have a history of being ignored and disrespected; if more mainstream fashion media included people of color before the ONE magazine dedicated to black women 'diversified', it would feel different."

Fashion personality Najwa Moses echoed Michaela's disappointment, telling Clutch magazine:

"How could such a prestigious title who is deeply rooted in its target audience let someone who is not even apart of the African Diaspora detonate our image? How can a White woman dictate and decide what style and beauty is for the Black woman?"

While everyone is entitled to their opinion, why should Ellianna's race matter if she's qualified?

The new fashion director has a lengthy fashion history and impressive resume that includes working for O: The Oprah Magazine, US Weekly and contributing/styling for many television shows.

Thoughts???

Tags: controversy, ellianna placas, essence magazine, facebook, fashion director, michaela angela davis, twitter