Imitation is said to be the highest form of flattery, but not in this case of Jeremy Scott vs. SupaCent! Recently, Moschino x Sephora launched their second brand collaboration, inspired by all your favorite back-to-school staples. But doesn’t that sound oddly familiar? New Orleans native, Raynell “Supa Cent” Steward’s beauty brand, The Crayon Case is known for its iconic Crayon Box Eyeshadow Palette and vibrant lippies.
In late 2018, The Crayon Case sold millions of dollars in product in just 90 minutes. At a time when cultural appropriation as well as outright duplication is at an all time high, it is important to call out those who, as a result of lack of market research or just plain lack of creativity, have deprived African American and other minorities of the opportunity to make money. In so many cases, society has seen how the influence of black women has birthed numerous trends in the beauty and fashion industry, but they are seldom recognized for such creativity and ambition.
In Supa’s case, her brand and how she is openly consistent in her support of her community will surpass any attempts of imitation. But what about other entrepreneurs who don’t have that recognition and brand notoriety. What will happen to them?
Scott’s collaboration with Sephora, said to be announced April 25th, offers a strikingly similar selection of nail polish, sponges, eye shadows, brushes, lip glosses, and other cosmetics are designed to look like office supplies.
The verdict is still out if this is a creative similarity or a cultural replication that is not sitting well with the urban culture.
