MALVEAUX: Well, it's been said that all publicity is good publicity, but designer Kenneth Cole finding out the hard way that is not always true.</s>BLACKWELL: Yes, Cole sparked Internet outrage on Thursday with a tweet that some say made light of the dire situation in Syria. We've got Zain Asher with us to explain. Zain.</s>ZAIN ASHER, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Hi, Suzanne. Hi, Victor. Some critics are appalled. Designer Kenneth Cole made headlines again with a controversial tweet this week. "Boots on the ground or not, let's not forget about sandals, pumps and loafers." Some say Cole was using the situation in Syria to advertise footwear. And it's not the first time. He got into hot quarter in 2011 when he tweeted during the uprising in Egypt that, "millions are in uproar in Cairo. Rumor has it they heard our new spring collection is now available online." He apologized and took it down, but he says it's not just about bags, boots and belts. Cole posted this video on Instagram.</s>KENNETH COLE, DESIGNER: I've always used my platform to provoke dialogue about important issues, including HIV/AIDS, war and homelessness. I'm well aware of the risks that come with this approach. And if this encourages further awareness and discussion about critical issues, then all the better.</s>ASHER: Kenneth Cole is well-known for taking a stand on social issues. He's taken out billboards on things,</s>MALVEAUX: All right, Zain Asher, thank you very much. He is getting the publicity. That is true.</s>BLACKWELL: People are talking about Kenneth Cole. And coming up on NEW DAY, highlights from a heartbreaking Giants game. A relatively unknown pitcher comes just one strike short of making Major League Baseball history. But we'll also warm your heart. After that, we're going to show you these little guys. More on these adorable cheetah cubs and why they found a new home at the Dallas Zoo.
Designer Sparks Backlash with Tweet