Fashion label Miu Miu pulls 'yellow star' dress after complaints

Italian firm apologises for offence and removes garments following outcry over the design from Jewish leaders

Italian fashion label Miu Miu has pulled items of clothing from its new winter range and apologised after an outcry over designs incorporating a yellow star.

The yellow star is well-known for being a mandatory designation of Jews used by the Nazis in the concentration camps, with the word ‘Jude’ written in the middle. The Miu Miu stars, with the name ‘John’ written in the middle, have five points, as opposed to the six-pointed Star of David.

A jacket and skirt, both costing more than £1,000, were first withdrawn from sale on Monday by Canadian chain Holt Renfrew, after objections were raised.

After World Jewish Congress raised concerns with Prada, which owns Miu Miu, the fashion label took action, saying: “It was not Miu Miu’s intent in any way to make any political or religious statement, and we apologise for any offence that may have been taken. Effective immediately, these items will be removed from the collection.”

WJC head Robert Singer thanked Miu Miu for its quick action, saying: “At this critical time, when anti-Semitism and bigotry are rearing their heads in the public sphere, we must continue to exercise caution and show sensitivity in every sphere and sector.”