Lisa (BlackPink) Sparks Outrage at Met Gala Over Rosa Parks-Inspired Outfit

Lisa (BlackPink) became the center of heated controversy at the Met Gala on May 5th after appearing on the red carpet in a “no pants” outfit, featuring underwear emblazoned with what appeared to be the image of Rosa Parks—the historic icon and leader of the American civil rights movement. According to Gulf News, this design quickly drew fierce criticism from international audiences.

Many viewers expressed outrage, arguing that placing Rosa Parks’ image—a woman who fought for Black equality—in such a sensitive area was disrespectful, culturally offensive, and distorted the historical context. Social media platform X was flooded with angry comments: “Who thought this was a way to honor Black people and feminism?”, “Using Rosa Parks’ image like this is truly disrespectful and insensitive,” “A lifetime fighting for Black rights only to be ‘honored’ in this way?”

This year’s Met Gala theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” aimed to celebrate the refined fashion of Black communities from the 18th century through the Harlem Renaissance, affirming the enduring influence of Black style on contemporary fashion. Guests were encouraged to pay tribute to Black culture through sophisticated, tailored designs.

Lisa’s outfit, designed by Louis Vuitton, was inspired by the artwork of Henry Taylor—an artist renowned for his portraits of Black artists and civil rights activists. However, Lisa’s bold interpretation was widely criticized as inappropriate, with many calling it tasteless and offensive to a historic human rights symbol.

Rosa Louise McCauley Parks (1913-2005) was an American civil rights activist who played a pivotal role in the Montgomery bus boycott. The U.S. Congress honored her as the “first lady of civil rights” and “the mother of the freedom movement.” Embroidering Rosa Parks’ image on lingerie was seen by many as crossing a line of acceptability.

Lisa has previously faced criticism for her daring fashion choices, frequently landing on “worst dressed” lists at high-profile events like the Met Gala. Some viewers even mocked her as a “singer who likes to undress,” recalling her controversial appearances at five burlesque shows in France in 2023.

As of now, neither Louis Vuitton nor Lisa has issued an official response to the incident. This controversy has reignited debates about the boundaries between artistic creativity and respect for historical and cultural values.