Policies & Issues

When a Bracelet Gets Political

Policies & IssuesNov 17, 2016

When a Bracelet Gets Political

Ivanka Trump’s jewelry brand issued an apology after sending out a “Style Alert” regarding the jewelry she wore while appearing alongside the president-elect on “60 Minutes.”

New York--Ivanka Trump is receiving some unwanted attention for promoting a bracelet she wore from her namesake fine jewelry line during an appearance Sunday on “60 Minutes.”

In a marketing blast, her team sent an e-mail to journalists highlighting the piece, calling it Trump’s “favorite bangle,” from the Metropolis Collection. The bracelet retails for more than $10,000.

This is all standard protocol for the fashion and accessory entrepreneur and would not have raised eyebrows had the “60 Minutes” interview not been conducted with her father to discuss his new role--as president-elect of the United States.

Responding to backlash from various news outlets that questioned the appropriateness of using a news interview to promote one’s brand, Ivanka Trump Fine Jewelry was quick to issue an apology.

Abigail Klem, president of the Ivanka Trump brand, said via a prepared statement that, “This notification was sent by a well-intentioned marketing employee at one of our companies who was following customary protocol, and who, like many of us, is still making adjustments post-election. We are proactively discussing new policies and procedures with all of our partners going forward.”

One bracelet has highlighted the broader issue of how the entire Trump clan will separate business and political interests over the next four years. Donald Trump has repeatedly said that he will turn control of his real estate empire over to his three eldest children, though for now they are all on his White House transition team.

Meanwhile, Ivanka Trump is unlikely to promote her company in a political context again.

After all, according to her website, “Ivanka Trump Fine Jewelry is designed for the modern woman who leads with strength and transitions fluidly between her many personal and professional roles.”

Ashley Davisis the senior editor, fashion at National Jeweler, covering all things related to design, style and trends.

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