Rachelle Hampton and Candice Lim talk about Taylor Swift's legal battles and potential cases against AI deepfakes. They discuss the controversy surrounding Emily Mariko's tote bag and influencers' pricing strategies, touching on ethical considerations in influencer marketing.
Critics question Emily Mariko's tote bag pricing and design, while supporters defend its size and ethical construction.
Backlash against Emily Mariko's tote bag reveals jealousy and entitlement issues among critics, emphasizing influencers' engagement expectations.
Deep dives
Emily Marco debuts a $120 tote bag called the farmers market tote
Influencer Emily Marco has released her first product, a $120 tote bag called the farmers market tote. The bag is made with soft brushed canvas, features a large interior zip closure hanging pocket, and comes in two colors. Some people are criticizing the bag's price and design, while others defend it, noting its large size and ethically made construction. Despite the backlash, the tote has sold out since its launch.
Backlash over Emily Marco's tote bag pricing
People are expressing frustration over the $120 price tag for Emily Marco's farmers market tote. Critics argue that it is too expensive for a basic plain bag and that Marco does not engage enough with her audience. However, supporters counter that influencers are not required to interact with their followers and that the bag's price is reasonable for an ethically made product of its size.
Jealousy and hating outside the club
Some of the backlash towards Emily Marco's tote bag can be attributed to jealousy and a sense of entitlement. Critics may be envious of Marco's success and are projecting their frustrations onto the pricing and design of the bag. However, it's important to remember that no one is obligated to purchase the item, and the bag has sold out despite the negative reactions.
The relatability and responsibilities of influencers
The controversy surrounding Emily Marco's tote bag highlights the expectations placed on influencers to be relatable and engaged with their audience. While some criticize Marco for not interacting enough, others argue that influencers have no obligation to do so. The debate also raises questions about the ethics of influencer commerce and the pricing of products in the market.
Rachelle Hampton and Candice Lim catch up on the latest stories churning the Taylor Swift media machine, from her lawyers sending a cease and desist letter to a college student, to her possibly leading a groundbreaking case against AI deepfakes. Then, they break down the backlash surrounding Emily Mariko, who was criticized by her followers for selling out — and shelling out — a tote bag.
This podcast is produced by Se’era Spragley Ricks, Daisy Rosario, Candice Lim and Rachelle Hampton.