Lisa, the 28-year-old member of the K-pop sensation BLACKPINK, made waves at the Met Gala 2025 with her striking appearance, but not without sparking controversy. The annual event, held on May 6 at the New York Metropolitan Museum, showcased the theme 'Black Style: High Fashion'. Lisa, known for her bold fashion choices, donned a custom-made bodysuit designed by Louis Vuitton's creative director, Pharrell Williams. However, the outfit's lower portion, which featured a print reminiscent of civil rights activist Rosa Parks, ignited a debate online.
As she arrived at the gala, Lisa embodied confidence, stepping out in a long coat that concealed her eye-catching ensemble. The anticipation surrounding her outfit was palpable, given her status as an ambassador for the luxury brand Louis Vuitton. Yet, the excitement quickly turned to scrutiny when viewers noticed the controversial print.
According to the Daily Mail, the trunks of Lisa's bodysuit displayed a portrait that many interpreted as an homage to Rosa Parks, a pivotal figure in the fight against racial segregation in the United States. Parks famously protested the segregation of public buses, leading to a landmark Supreme Court ruling that deemed such practices unconstitutional. The use of her likeness on a fashion item raised eyebrows and prompted a flurry of reactions on social media.
Fans expressed their disappointment, questioning the appropriateness of featuring Parks' image in a fashion context, especially during an event meant to honor Black culture and heritage. Comments ranged from disbelief to outrage, with users asking, "Who thought this was a good idea?" and expressing that they never expected to see Parks' name associated with such a fashion statement. The sentiment was clear: many felt that the choice was disrespectful.
In response to the backlash, representatives from Louis Vuitton clarified the intention behind the design. They stated that the print was the work of artist Henry Taylor, who is known for depicting figures of personal significance in his life, both famous and unknown. When asked if Rosa Parks was specifically among those portrayed, they explained that Taylor's work often includes a mix of historical and personal figures, leaving the interpretation open-ended.
Despite the controversy, Lisa's outfit was not merely a fashion statement; it represented a collaboration that blended art and fashion in a unique way. The Met Gala's theme this year, 'Superfine: Tailoring Black Style', aimed to celebrate the artistry and legacy of Black culture, making Lisa's choice of attire even more significant.
In a behind-the-scenes video released by Vogue, Pharrell Williams discussed the creative process behind the outfit. He emphasized that the design was tailored specifically for Lisa and inspired by the gala's theme. Williams shared, "When creating the design, I am guided by three criteria: luxury, comfort, and high quality." He noted that the intricate embroidery on Lisa's bodysuit was a testament to the fusion of traditional artistry and modern fashion.
Lisa herself expressed her excitement about the outfit, stating that she felt powerful and confident wearing it. She admired the exquisite embroidery and how the details contributed to a deeper narrative within the design, adding a personal and artistic touch to the piece.
The Met Gala, which has been held annually since 1948, serves not only as a lavish fashion event but also as a fundraiser for the Costume Institute of the Metropolitan Museum. This year, it attracted a host of K-pop stars, including Lisa's BLACKPINK bandmates Rosé and Jennie, as well as S.Coups from SEVENTEEN.
While the event is known for its extravagant displays of fashion, the intersection of cultural representation and commercialism often leads to complex discussions. Lisa's outfit, with its artistic aspirations and the ensuing controversy, encapsulates this dynamic perfectly. As fashion continues to evolve, the dialogue surrounding cultural sensitivity and representation remains crucial.
Many fans and critics alike are left wondering how such a powerful symbol as Rosa Parks can be interpreted through the lens of fashion. The debate highlights the delicate balance between honoring cultural heritage and the potential for misinterpretation in the world of high fashion.
As of now, Lisa has not publicly addressed the backlash or offered any comments regarding the controversy surrounding her outfit. The silence from both the artist and Louis Vuitton has left many waiting for a response amid the ongoing discussions about cultural respect and representation in fashion.
In the end, Lisa's appearance at the Met Gala serves as a reminder of the complexities inherent in fashion as an art form. It raises important questions about how cultural icons are portrayed and the responsibilities that come with such representations in the public eye.
