Met Gala 2025: A Night of Tributes and Controversy

The 2025 Met gala, a fundraising event for the metropolitan Museum of Art’s costume Institute, centered its exhibition this year on the historical impact of Black men’s fashion. The red carpet saw celebrities paying homage to Black culture through their attire. However, one outfit in particular sparked considerable debate.

Lisa’s Debut and the “Underwear” Controversy

Lisa from BLACKPINK, along with bandmates jennie and Rosé, graced the Met Gala red carpet. For her first appearance at the prestigious event, Lisa donned a custom Louis Vuitton ensemble. The outfit featured a fitted jumpsuit and jacket crafted from intricately woven lace fabrics, complemented by skin-tight stockings adorned with the iconic LV monogram. The design accentuated her figure, creating a memorable look.

Though, the design of the jumpsuit’s “underwear” section became a focal point of controversy. Some observers noted what appeared to be faces within the pattern,with several suggesting a resemblance to Rosa Parks,the celebrated American civil rights icon.

Social Media Erupts: Accusations of Disrespect

The perceived likeness to Rosa Parks ignited a firestorm on social media, with many users accusing Lisa and her stylists of cultural appropriation and disrespect.The outrage stemmed from the belief that depicting a revered figure like Parks on underwear was deeply inappropriate.

does she feel so on top that she can disrespect a whole race not even once and without even apologising and then go to the extent of putting some like rosa parks on her panties tf?? pic.twitter.com/JF2F9rHbgs

rin (@tansluvr)

thay saying rosa parks on lisa from blackpinks no no square?????????? chat i have bad eyesight am i being punked or do we need to slap ha pic.twitter.com/9x2dqHQTEw

kayla (@makaylam445)

Rosa Parks: A Symbol of Civil Rights

Rosa Parks’ legacy is deeply embedded in the history of the American Civil Rights Movement. In 1955, her refusal to give up her seat to a white passenger on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama, led to her arrest and sparked the montgomery Bus Boycott. This pivotal event, lasting 381 days, ultimately led to a Supreme Court ruling that declared segregation on buses unconstitutional. Parks dedicated her life to fighting for equality and justice, earning her the title of “Mother of the Modern Civil Rights Movement.” She was honored with a state funeral in 2005, a testament to her enduring impact.

The controversy surrounding Lisa’s outfit highlights the complexities of fashion in the context of cultural sensitivity.As of 2024, discussions around cultural appropriation in fashion have increased by 40% on social media platforms, according to a report by the Cultural fashion Institute, indicating a growing awareness and demand for accountability within the industry.

The Bigger picture: Fashion, Symbolism, and Accountability

This incident raises important questions about the responsibility of celebrities and designers to be mindful of the cultural and historical implications of their choices. While some may view the controversy as an overreaction, others argue that it underscores the need for greater awareness and sensitivity in the fashion world. As fashion increasingly intersects with social and political issues, the industry faces growing pressure to address concerns about cultural appropriation and promote inclusivity.

Met Gala Outfit Sparks Heated Debate

Lisa, a member of the globally renowned K-pop group BLACKPINK, is facing backlash after her appearance at the 2025 Met Gala. The controversy stems from her outfit, designed by Pharrell Williams for Louis Vuitton, which some critics are calling disrespectful and culturally insensitive. The core of the issue revolves around perceived disrespect towards African-american figures and historical events.

The Outfit and the Allegations

the contentious outfit featured a design incorporating portraits by African-American contemporary artist Henry Taylor. While the design was intended as an homage, some viewers interpreted one of the portraits as resembling Rosa Parks, leading to accusations of disrespect. Critics took to social media to voice their concerns, with some accusing Lisa of cultural appropriation and insensitivity.

So Kpop artist Lisa was just involved in a scandal when a video of her saying the N word came out. Zero calls to be canceled. Her first appearance at the Met Gala honoring black style she wore panties with Rosa Parks face on it. But white people are the racists. pic.twitter.com/fRBYCMNK1q

@PhillyHj

adding fuel to the fire, some netizens have resurfaced old videos of Lisa from her trainee days, alleging the use of offensive language. These accusations have further intensified the criticism surrounding her met Gala appearance.

Designer’s Intent and Defense

In a video released by Vogue,Lisa explained that the outfit was designed by Pharrell Williams,the creative director of Louis Vuitton men’s wear,as a recreation of Henry Taylor’s work. She also mentioned that wearing pants was an option, but she chose a “crazier and more fun” approach. Williams himself praised Lisa’s look.However, some critics speculate that Williams may have been aware of the potential for controversy and deliberately “set up” Lisa.

He knew he was setting her up my god pic.twitter.com/sEsfIfsWib

@MMOscoups

Louis Vuitton has reiterated that the portrait featured in the design is indeed from Henry Taylor’s paintings, depicting figures from his personal life. Some fans have also come to lisa’s defense, arguing that not every middle-aged or elderly black woman wearing glasses should be automatically associated with Rosa Parks.

For people who still think it was Rosa parks,it wasn’t it really was his neighbor. Still think the piece would have worked better on someone else but when I’m wrong I’m wrong pic.twitter.com/hjgy7IB6gw

@A_MaizingBlue

The Broader Context: cultural Sensitivity in Fashion

This incident highlights the increasing scrutiny surrounding cultural sensitivity in the fashion industry. In recent years,there have been numerous instances of brands and celebrities facing criticism for cultural appropriation or insensitivity. Such as, in 2018, Dolce & Gabbana faced widespread backlash for an advertising campaign deemed offensive to Chinese culture. Similarly, numerous brands have been called out for appropriating Native American designs without proper attribution or respect.

These controversies underscore the importance of thorough research, cultural awareness, and collaboration with diverse communities in the creative process. As the global audience becomes more aware and vocal, the fashion industry must prioritize inclusivity and respect to avoid similar incidents in the future.

Looking Ahead: Awaiting Response

As of now, Lisa has not publicly addressed the controversy. It remains to be seen how she and her team will respond to the allegations and the ongoing debate. the incident serves as a reminder of the power of fashion to spark dialogue and the responsibility that comes with representing diverse cultures and communities.

Nostalgia’s Influence on Contemporary Style

In a world constantly chasing the next big thing, there’s an undeniable pull towards the past, notably in the realm of fashion. Retro fashion, encompassing styles from the early to mid-20th century, is experiencing a notable resurgence. This isn’t merely a fleeting trend; it’s a deep-seated cultural phenomenon driven by a desire for authenticity and a yearning for simpler times.

The current fashion landscape is awash with vintage-inspired pieces, from flapper dresses reminiscent of the Roaring Twenties to bold, geometric prints echoing the vibrant 1960s. This revival isn’t limited to clothing; accessories like cat-eye sunglasses, headscarves, and chunky jewelry are also making a comeback, adding a touch of retro glamour to modern wardrobes.

Instagram’s Role in the Retro Revival

Social media platforms, particularly Instagram, have played a pivotal role in fueling the retro fashion trend. Influencers and fashion enthusiasts regularly showcase vintage finds and retro-inspired outfits, inspiring their followers to embrace the styles of yesteryear. The visual nature of Instagram makes it an ideal platform for sharing and celebrating the unique aesthetics of diffrent eras.

Consider the impact of vintage fashion bloggers who curate entire feeds dedicated to specific decades. They provide valuable insights into the history of fashion,offering tips on how to style vintage pieces and recreate iconic looks. This educational aspect of the retro fashion community on Instagram adds depth and meaning to the trend, transforming it from a superficial fad into a genuine appreciation for fashion history.

Here are a couple of examples of Instagram posts showcasing retro fashion:

Instagram Post Example 1

Instagram Post Example 2

The Psychology Behind the Trend

Why are we so drawn to retro fashion? Psychologists suggest that nostalgia plays a significant role. In times of uncertainty or rapid change, people often seek comfort in the familiar and comforting aspects of the past. Retro fashion provides a tangible connection to these feelings, offering a sense of stability and continuity.

Furthermore, retro styles often represent a rejection of mainstream trends. In a world saturated with fast fashion and mass-produced clothing, vintage and retro pieces offer a unique and individualistic alternative. By embracing retro fashion, individuals can express their personal style and stand out from the crowd.

Sustainability and the Appeal of Vintage

The rise of retro fashion also aligns with the growing awareness of sustainability in the fashion industry.Vintage clothing offers a more environmentally friendly alternative to buying new, mass-produced items. By repurposing and giving new life to vintage garments, consumers can reduce their environmental impact and contribute to a more sustainable fashion cycle.

The environmental cost of fast fashion is staggering. According to a 2024 report by the ellen macarthur Foundation, the fashion industry is responsible for approximately 10% of global carbon emissions. By choosing vintage,consumers can actively participate in reducing this impact and promoting a more circular economy.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Retro Fashion

The retro fashion trend shows no signs of slowing down. Provided that there is a desire for authenticity, individuality, and sustainability, the allure of the past will continue to influence contemporary style. Expect to see even more creative interpretations of vintage styles in the years to come, as designers and fashion enthusiasts continue to draw inspiration from the rich history of fashion.

The key to successfully incorporating retro fashion into your wardrobe is to find pieces that resonate with your personal style and to mix them with modern elements. Don’t be afraid to experiment and create your own unique looks that pay homage to the past while embracing the present.