UPDATE, 2/25/20 2:15 p.m. ET: Philipp Plein has released a statement in response to the backlash he's received over his recent Kobe Bryant tribute during Milan Fashion Week, with the designer defending what took place. "It is sad to see how something positive and constructive can be misinterpreted by people who obviously want to interpret negatively without even having a reason," he wrote. "As a matter of fact, I am really doing something to help and support the foundation."

Read his full statement below.

The catwalk set-up was already planned and designed in November 2019, way before this tragic accident occurred, this is the reason why they were gilded helicopters on the runway. I would have clearly removed them if possible, but it was too late to replace them. During the fashion show, along with Jada Pinkett-Smith and other friends from all over the world I made a public statement to explain the reason why I decide to celebrate Kobe Bryant's legacy and made clear that profits from the capsule collection will be donated to Mamba & Mambacita Sports Foundation. The first [$20,000] have been transferred to the foundation already last Friday, the day before the show. This tragedy affected myself and all the world deeply and I feel that my fashion show have been the best moment to express my respect and admiration for Kobe Bryant, his daughter Gianna and his family. It is sad to see how something positive and constructive can be misinterpreted by people who obviously want to interpret negatively without even having a reason. As a matter of fact, I am really doing something to help and support the foundation. Actions speak louder than words.

See below for original story.

Designer Philipp Plein is facing backlash after he debuted a Kobe Bryant tribute during his Milan Fashion Week show on Saturday. With models that included Olivia Culpo and Jada Pinkett Smith, alongside a performance from Tyga, Plein's show featured Lakers-style jerseys and sweatshirts covered in crystals and Bryant's number, 24. A gold Plein-branded plane, yacht, and helicopter were also on stage.

While the collection was seen as "distasteful" and "tacky" by some, the real issue for many came from the designer apparently using Kobe's death to sell his new collection. Additionally, the golden helicopter has proved controversial, as Kobe and his 13-year-old daughter Gianna died in a helicopter crash on Jan. 26. The pieces are part of a new capsule collection, and the proceeds are expected to go to the Mamba and Mambacita Sports Foundation. Regardless, fans were still upset about the show overall.

See what Twitter had to say below.