K-pop singer Lisa of BLACKPINK faced significant backlash for her outfit at the 2025 Met Gala, held on May 5, 2025. The 28-year-old artist made her debut at the prestigious event wearing a striking ensemble that included sheer Louis Vuitton tights, a black embellished blazer, and unique statement underwear.
However, it was the design of her outfit that sparked controversy, particularly due to the depiction of historical Black figures, including civil rights icon Rosa Parks, on her undergarments. This detail drew sharp criticism from fans and observers who deemed it inappropriate and disrespectful, especially in light of resurfaced footage showing Lisa and her bandmates allegedly using the n-word during auditions prior to their debut.
As Lisa walked the blue carpet at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, she showcased a bold fashion choice that embraced the pantsless trend, flaunting her toned figure with her hair styled in a sultry updo. Yet, the images of Black leaders adorning her underwear quickly became a focal point of discussion on social media.
One user on X (formerly Twitter) expressed their disbelief, stating, "Rosa Parks on your underwear less than 3 months after a compilation of you saying the n-word goes viral is kinda crazy but maybe that's just me!" Another user questioned the thought process behind the outfit, asking, "Who the hell decided it was a good idea to put the faces of influential Black women on a pair of PANTIES?" Such comments reflect a broader sentiment among critics who felt that the choice was tone-deaf, particularly given the Met Gala's theme for 2025, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," which aimed to celebrate Black fashion and heritage.
The backlash intensified as many fans recalled the recent resurfacing of clips from BLACKPINK’s pre-debut days, where Lisa and her fellow members, Rosé and Jennie, were seen using the n-word during performances. Critics pointed out that neither Lisa nor her bandmates had publicly acknowledged or apologized for their past actions, further fueling the outrage over her Met Gala look.
Despite the criticism, some supporters defended Lisa’s choice, praising her fashion-forward approach. Comments such as, "Her first ever MET, she ate that ✔️," and "Stunning. The juxtaposition of a simplistic silhouette with the mixing of patterns makes this one unique. Love it," indicate that opinions on her outfit were divided.
Lisa has not yet publicly responded to the controversy surrounding her outfit. Louis Vuitton, the designer of her ensemble, has also remained silent on the matter. The incident has sparked a broader conversation about cultural sensitivity in fashion, particularly regarding the representation of historical figures and the implications of their portrayal.
Rosa Parks, known for her pivotal role in the civil rights movement, famously refused to give up her bus seat to a white passenger in Montgomery, Alabama, in 1955. This act of defiance initiated the Montgomery bus boycott and marked a significant moment in the fight against racial discrimination. Given Parks' legacy, many fans expressed that using her image in such a manner undermines the progress made in combating racism and reinforces harmful stereotypes.
As the Met Gala continues to be a platform for celebrities to make bold fashion statements, the intersection of style and social commentary remains a critical topic. The event often serves as a reflection of cultural trends and societal issues, with attendees interpreting the theme in various ways. However, Lisa's outfit has raised questions about the appropriateness of such interpretations, especially when they involve sensitive historical figures.
In the wake of the backlash, Lisa reportedly apologized to her fans and followers for the incident. This response indicates her awareness of the controversy and the need to address the concerns raised by critics. The 2025 Met Gala has thus become a focal point for discussions surrounding cultural representation in fashion, the responsibilities of public figures, and the implications of their choices.
As the fashion world evolves, the conversations ignited by events like the Met Gala will likely continue to shape how artists and designers approach cultural themes in their work. The balance between artistic expression and respect for historical legacies remains a delicate one, and the reactions to Lisa's outfit serve as a reminder of the impact that fashion choices can have on public perception.
Ultimately, the 2025 Met Gala will be remembered not only for its glamorous displays of fashion but also for the important discussions it has sparked about race, representation, and the responsibilities of those in the spotlight. As the industry continues to navigate these complex issues, it is clear that the intersection of fashion and social commentary will remain a pertinent topic for years to come.
