
A makeup brand has released a new range of foundation colours, however not everyone is impressed with the way they've chosen to name their new range of shades.
The New York-based make up brand Cocoa Swatches launched their new collaboration with the well-known make up artist Jackie Aina 'Born This Way' on 16 June.
The idea behind the range is that it is inclusive, and provides a foundation for all skin types. On the promotional materials for the launch, it says:
We teamed up with beauty and style influencer and makeup artist Jackie Aina to create the perfect shade range for all skin tones to help everyone look and feel their most beautiful.
We’ve got the shades!!! 😍🙌🏿 @jackieaina x @TooFaced https://t.co/16dfJzuUrJ— CocoaSwatches (@CocoaSwatches) 1529110920
Some Twitter users took issue with the branding.
The white skin tones use things as their namesakes, such as 'cloud', 'snow' or 'ivory'. However, the black skin tones are largely named after foods, including 'caramel', 'mocha' and 'cocoa'.
@CocoaSwatches @jackieaina @TooFaced Can we have a discussion about something: How come the darker shades are ALWAY… https://t.co/DDumMEHzYI— Sabina 💜 (@Sabina 💜) 1529112150
Why, questioned some, couldn't the white skin tones have delicious-sounding names, too?
@NylaKiara_ @CocoaSwatches @jackieaina @TooFaced Whip cream, vanilla, French vanilla, white chocolate etc... there are options!!— Sabina 💜 (@Sabina 💜) 1529123144
@sabinaexy @NylaKiara_ @CocoaSwatches @jackieaina @TooFaced Coconut, panna cotta, meringue, creme brûlée...honestly, I could go on— stargirl 💫 (@stargirl 💫) 1529131835
Others were quick to point out 'nude' is different for everyone.
Some, however, didn't see what all the fuss was about.
Cocoa Swatches took to Twitter to defend and explain their branding choices.
I appreciate the discussion going on under this post but it sucks that it’s at the expense of a black woman trying to change things for us.— CocoaSwatches (@CocoaSwatches) 1529297349
The shade name discussion ( especially the use of “nude” as a shade name — it drives me insane and I’ve spoken out… https://t.co/QyBY9oI4t8— CocoaSwatches (@CocoaSwatches) 1529297499
Indy100 has contacted Cocoa Swatches for comment.
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