"Playboi carti reference?": Internet reacts to Kanye West posting red KKK outfit in latest X post

Internet reacts to Kanye West posting red KKK outfit in latest X post (Image via Getty/X/@kanyewest)
Internet reacts to Kanye West posting red KKK outfit in latest X post (Image via Getty/X/@kanyewest)

Kanye West is back in the news after sharing a picture of red KKK-themed attire on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle. The image promptly created confusion and controversy on social media. Several users are inquiring if the trend is associated with rapper Playboi Carti, while others are concerned with the meaning behind the photo.

The image depicts a person in a red hooded robe, which is similarly shaped to the Ku Klux Klan uniform, although it is a white supremacist hate group. The robe, however, is completely red. No caption or description can be seen in the post. As expected, it left both fans and followers wondering about Kanye's meaning and intent behind the post.

This is not the first time Kanye has made a controversial post. Previously, he has gained headlines for remarks on race, religion, and fashion. His latest post appears to combine all three subjects again, causing a heated reaction on the internet. Many fans took to social media to express their views about the hooded outfit.

"playboi carti reference?" said a fan on X
"Kanye is a red mood ,keep clear today" said a fan on X
"is this the chinese kkk fit?" said another fan
"No eye holes in the red one. How am I suppose to see in my red kkk outfit ye?" said a fan
"That’s gotta be inspired by Star Wars" said another fan

What does the outfit on Kanye West's X account look like?

What does the outfit on Kanye West's X account look like? (Image via Getty)
What does the outfit on Kanye West's X account look like? (Image via Getty)

The picture depicts a long, red robe with a pointed hood completely covering the face and head. The pattern is virtually identical to the white robes of the traditional KKK members, yet the color is what makes the difference. The material looks smooth and clean. The eyes are fashioned in the same manner as traditional KKK hoods.

No word or clear logo is visible on the attire. The absence of detail contributes to the enigma. Some on the internet suspect it might be a part of a fashion experiment or music marketing, but officially nothing has been said.

Read More: 5 times Kanye West shocked the internet with his fashion choices


Is this a reference to Playboi Carti?

Playboi Carti (Image via Getty)
Playboi Carti (Image via Getty)

Carti frequently dresses in bold, unusual attire and incorporates red themes into his performances and albums. His 2020 album "Whole Lotta Red" included red hues and gothic imagery. He also performs wearing face masks and hooded costumes.

Some users noted that the red robe appears to be similar to what Carti wore on his recent tour. Others believe that the post could be a sign of a music collaboration or video. Neither Kanye nor Carti has yet to confirm any connection.

Some people think comparing Carti’s fashion style to a KKK lookalike outfit is too much. They argue that even if Kanye meant it as a tribute, the design is too close to something that represents hate and fear.

Read More: Kanye West reveals Swastika logo on an X post, calling it his ‘greatest performance art’


Kanye West's tweet of the red KKK-style clothing has caused fresh controversy. Some consider it a piece of art. Others see it as a symbol of something beneath, such as a nod to Playboi Carti or a greater commentary on race and culture. Most are not sure what to think.

All this, again, is based on speculation without an official statement from Kanye. Still, one thing is sure: his tweet has again raised conversation, controversy, and outrage on social media.

Edited by Ishita Banerjee