Angelyne Fans Blast Marc Jacobs Over Controversial Tote Bags

UPDATE: Fans of Los Angeles billboard icon Angelyne are voicing their outrage against designer Marc Jacobs following the launch of his new “The City” tote collection. The bags, which feature a provocative drawing of a woman above Hollywood signage, bear a striking resemblance to Angelyne’s iconic billboards, sparking immediate backlash.

The controversy erupted as music producer and DJ Cazwell took to social media on January 23 to share a reel of Angelyne, urging Jacobs to either compensate her or cease what he called “thievery.” Cazwell’s post included comments from fans, with one stating, “@marcjacobs either compensate Angelyne or stop. This is thievery.”

Angelyne, known for her bold persona and 1980s billboard fame, has not yet publicly commented on Jacobs’ totes, but her fans are fervently defending her legacy. The Hollywood legend reposted a message from London-based street artist Pegasus, who criticized the design as “poor execution” and suggested a collaboration with Angelyne to create something truly worthy. Pegasus wrote, “Girl be angry with the fact they made you look like Gumby. Let’s partner up and create a bag worth carrying.”

Cazwell, who reminisced about purchasing an Angelyne T-shirt from her pink Corvette for $40, expressed his hope that Jacobs would “make the right choice,” indicating that the designer should acknowledge Angelyne’s influence.

Angelyne’s rise to fame was recently highlighted in the 2022 Peacock series “Angelyne,” starring Emmy Rossum. Despite the attention, Angelyne has previously expressed her dissatisfaction with how her story was portrayed, stating in an interview with Inside Edition, “It doesn’t do me justice. Would you be flattered if someone played you and misrepresented you?”

As the debate continues, the fashion industry watches closely for Jacobs’ response. A representative for Marc Jacobs has not yet provided a comment regarding the accusations.

The situation underscores the ongoing conversation around intellectual property and artistic inspiration, particularly in the realm of fashion. With the launch of the tote collection coinciding with Angelyne’s legacy, the stakes are high, and both sides of the argument are poised for a potential clash.

As of now, Angelyne’s fans remain vocal, and the pressure is mounting on Jacobs to address the issue. The ongoing dialogue highlights the passionate community surrounding Angelyne and the cultural significance she holds in Los Angeles.

Stay tuned for further developments as this story unfolds, and watch for potential statements from Marc Jacobs and Angelyne in the coming days.