Young Pakistani designer Aamna Aqeel insists that her latest photo shoot “Be My Slave” is intended to call attention to the problem of child labor among the monied class. My own fuse is much longer on the topic of racist content than many of the other fashion bloggers.

“Be My Slave” is a blatent attempt to create controversy, and Aqeel has succeeded. 

Rather than the hysterical, breast-beating going on over at Styleite, the original article in The Express Tribune, published in association with The Herald Tribune is far more thoughtful: Slavery Is Still Not An Acceptable Theme For Your Fashion Spread.

Salima Feerasta writes that fashion loves to be provocative, and we have come to expect the offensive. Yours truly believes that America is political correctness gone mad, but I’m right with Feerasta on condeming this shoot for one key reason.

Without a doubt, the model wearing the brand is very comfortable being in the dominant position, with the dark-skinned child subservient.  This is no Smart Sensuality woman brand campaign but one dedicated to the heartless women who employ child labor and have no problem with it. It wouldn’t surprise me to read they are friends of designer Aamna Aqeel — these cold-blooded, modern values fashionistas.

Can you imagine Angelina Jolie appearing in such images? Shakira? No way! They are women truly dedicated to helping change lives for children worldwide. “Be My Slave” is nauseating.  ~ Anne