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    Pharrell On Elle Cover Controversy: "I Am Genuinely Sorry"

    The artist and producer apologized for wearing a Native American headdress on the cover of the fashion mag's UK edition.

    On the cover of the July edition of Elle UK, Pharrell Williams replaced his usual headline-grabbing headwear with a traditional Native American headdress.

    Many Native Americans and others were upset about the appropriation of the garment, which is considered to be the sacred garb of chiefs and warriors. They created the "#NotHappy" hashtag on Twitter.

    I'm seriously disappointed in @Pharrell for wearing a war bonnet on the cover of @ELLEmagazine #nothappy

    Urgh. Why does the fashion industry insist on turning sacred cultural items into fashion props? #NOTHappy @ELLEUK

    Seriously? A whole magazine staff & @pharrell's handlers thought this was a good idea? http://t.co/mtDAd578gI via @IndianCountry #nothappy

    Another celebrity thinking it's okay to wear a Native Headdress for fashion. @Pharrell WHADDAYADOIN #NotHappy

    In a statement responding to the controversy, Pharrell has apologized, saying he meant no disrespect.

    "I respect and honor every kind of race, background and culture," Pharrell says. "I am genuinely sorry."

    Elle UK has not yet responded to a request for comment.

    A message to all celebrities who are thinking about dressing up as a member of another culture for fun or fashion...