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Arts & Culture
07 May 2025

Lisa's Met Gala Outfit Sparks Controversy Over Cultural Sensitivity

The BlackPink star's bold fashion choice raises questions about respect and boundaries in design.

Lisa, the renowned member of the K-pop group BlackPink, made headlines again after her striking appearance at the Met Gala on May 5, 2025. Known for her exceptional dance and rap skills, Lisa has also established herself as a global fashion icon, consistently sought after by major fashion houses. However, her latest outfit sparked significant controversy, raising questions about cultural sensitivity in fashion.

At the Met Gala, Lisa donned a bold ensemble from Louis Vuitton, which featured printed leggings, a bodysuit, and a meticulously tailored blazer. The theme for this year's event was "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," emphasizing the stylish contributions of Black designers and the cultural aesthetics of the Black community. While many praised Lisa's beauty and aura, the outfit's controversial elements quickly drew criticism.

Notably, Lisa's outfit prominently displayed portraits of prominent African American artist Henry Taylor and civil rights icon Rosa Parks. Critics pointed out that the placement of Parks' image in a sensitive area of the bodysuit was inappropriate, with some social media users labeling the outfit as "vulgar" and "disrespectful." One user expressed concern, stating, "Using Rosa Parks' image in this way is a disrespect to her legacy and the struggles she faced during the Civil Rights Movement." This sentiment echoed across various platforms, igniting a heated debate about the boundaries of fashion.

Supporters of Lisa argued that the entire outfit was crafted by a Black artist and that the design elements were not limited to just the undergarments. They emphasized that the portrayal of cultural icons should be celebrated rather than condemned. However, the sensitive nature of Parks' legacy led to heightened scrutiny and emotional responses from the public.

This controversy was compounded by resurfacing accusations regarding BlackPink members' previous use of the "N-word," which intensified the public's reaction to Lisa's Met Gala appearance. Although these allegations had circulated in the past, the combination of the outfit's controversial design and the resurfaced accusations made the backlash more pronounced.

Despite the anticipation surrounding her debut at the Met Gala, Lisa's appearance has sparked a significant discussion about cultural respect and the boundaries of fashion. While it remains uncertain whether this incident will influence her future collaborations or appearances at the Met Gala, Lisa has undoubtedly become one of the most talked-about figures at this year's event, albeit in a negative light.

In addition to her Met Gala appearance, Lisa has been making waves in the fashion world with her bold style choices. Recently, she has been seen sporting a 'no pants' outfit that featured lingerie paired with a chain belt and logo tights. This daring look has garnered mixed reactions from the public, with some praising her for her fashion-forward approach while others deem it too revealing.

At Coachella 2025, Lisa further showcased her dynamic fashion sense, performing in a sparkling bodysuit that captivated audiences. Her set included hits with strong feminist themes, and she exuded confidence on stage, effortlessly commanding attention. Lisa's wardrobe changes during the performance included a youthful Hello Kitty dress and a form-fitting red bodysuit that highlighted her curves.

Moreover, during the listening party for her solo album "Alter Ego" in March 2025, Lisa made a bold statement with her cyberpunk-inspired look. She wore a brown bodysuit paired with a high-shoulder jacket, creating a sharp and modern silhouette. However, her sheer pants drew mixed reviews, with some finding the combination visually striking, while others felt it was difficult to digest.

As Lisa continues to push boundaries in both her music and fashion, her recent appearances have sparked conversations about the role of artists in shaping cultural narratives through their style choices. Critics argue that artists wield significant influence and should be mindful of the cultural implications of their fashion statements, especially when they involve historical figures and movements.

In the wake of the Met Gala controversy, Lisa's fashion choices have been placed under a microscope, prompting discussions about the intersection of fashion, culture, and respect. While some celebrate her boldness and creativity, others call for greater sensitivity and awareness in the portrayal of cultural icons.

As the fashion world evolves, so too does the dialogue surrounding it. Artists like Lisa find themselves at the forefront of these discussions, navigating the delicate balance between self-expression and cultural respect. Her journey reflects the ongoing challenges faced by public figures in an increasingly interconnected and socially aware landscape.

Despite the backlash, Lisa remains a powerful figure in the music and fashion industries, continuing to inspire millions of fans worldwide. Her ability to blend artistry with bold fashion choices ensures that she will remain a topic of conversation, whether for her talent, her style, or the cultural implications of her choices.