Brief
Zara faces backlash over Halloween costume resembling Auschwitz uniform
Critics say Zara's striped children's costume evokes Auschwitz uniforms, leading to online protests and calls for the item to be withdrawn.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Zara is under fire after its £39.99 Kids’ Halloween Groom Costume was criticised for resembling the striped uniforms worn by Auschwitz prisoners, according to the Independent.
What happened
The two‑piece costume, sold online in grey and blue with vertical stripes, a distressed finish and a lapel flower, prompted shoppers to compare it to concentration‑camp clothing. Some observers also noted pattern elements that look like barbed‑wire fencing.
What was said
Naomi Mestrum, director of the Centre for Information and Documentation Israel, told the Independent that the Holocaust connection “remains” and is “painful”, adding that she does not suspect malicious intent but hopes Zara learns from the reaction.
How it came about
Zara described the item as a children’s costume with decorative topstitching. The company has previously withdrawn items after similar complaints, including a striped top in 2014 and a handbag with alleged swastika‑like embroidery in 2007.
Key facts
- Zara sold a £39.99 Kids’ Halloween Groom Costume online (independent.co.uk)
- Critics say the costume’s vertical stripes and distressed effect resemble Auschwitz prisoner uniforms (independent.co.uk)
- Naomi Mestrum of the Centre for Information and Documentation Israel commented on the painful Holocaust connection (independent.co.uk)
- Zara previously withdrew a children’s striped top in 2014 after similar complaints (independent.co.uk)
