Scarlett Johansson defended wearing Harvey Weinstein-linked Marchesa gown — but fans say she shouldn't have to
Plenty of controversy-courting outfits hit the red carpet at Monday night’s Met Gala. Rihanna’s take on papal fashion was deemed “blasphemous” by some, while Olivia Munn’s Crusades-inspired look was accused of trivializing one of history’s bloodiest periods.
From a design standpoint, there was nothing terribly eyebrow-raising about Scarlett Johansson’s garnet tulle gown — except for the label. The actress opted to wear Marchesa, the fashion house co-run by Harvey Weinstein‘s estranged wife, Georgina Chapman.
Whether unfairly or not, Marchesa’s reputation has been somewhat compromised by its links to the disgraced film producer. Weinstein is alleged to have bullied actresses into wearing his wife’s gowns on the red carpet. Since accusations of his widespread sexual misconduct broke last fall, Chapman has filed for divorce and kept a low profile on the fashion front.
Many have argued that Chapman and her fashion line shouldn’t be blamed for Weinstein’s behavior; others, including alleged victim Rose McGowan, have accused her of being complicit.
Johansson, who attended the Met Gala with boyfriend Colin Jost of Saturday Night Live, has faced similar criticism since Monday’s event. The Avengers: Infinity War star felt compelled to defend her sartorial selection in a media statement.
“I wore Marchesa because their clothes make women feel confident and beautiful, and it is my pleasure to support a brand created by two incredibly talented and important female designers,” she said.
Marchesa, which is designed by Chapman and business partner Keren Craig, also issued a statement.
“We are truly honored that Scarlett chose to wear Marchesa for the Met Gala,” it said. “She is an amazingly talented actor who has incredible style and presence. It was wonderful to work so closely with her in creating this custom look.”
But did Johansson — who has been a vocal supporter of #TimesUp and was a speaker at the 2018 Women’s March — need to explain herself? According to many people, coming after Johansson for her dress is an example of how society holds women to a higher standard than men.
Many fans took to Twitter to defend her right to dress as she pleases, arguing that the blame should fall squarely on Weinstein’s shoulders rather than the women around him.
Um…#ScarlettJohansson can wear whatever the fuck she wants. Good for her for separating Marchesa and the women who built it from that scumbag Weinstein. #WednesdayWisdom #sorrynotsorry #BlackWidow #MetGala pic.twitter.com/5VhBDPSf7o
— Snowy Egret (@snowyegret14) May 9, 2018
I️ hope more let Marchesa stand on it’s own feet free from Weinstein. They are being punished for his crimes when Georgina is divorcing him. Sad that Weinstein used the brand abusively with actresses. Hard to overcome. Takes a lot of Scarlett Johansson’s https://t.co/qPfecXpHkD
— (@MsNinaGrace) May 8, 2018
scarlett johansson does a lot of questionable shit but wearing marchesa to the met gala really isn’t that? georgina is divorcing harvey weinstein and she, along with keren, are NOT responsible for his crimes? so shouldn’t be being punished for them
— mol (@molransome) May 9, 2018
The backlash over Scarlett Johansson wearing Marchesa is a joke tbh, Georgina Chapman isn’t even with Weinstein anymore, Johansson wearing the dress is supporting her and not Weinstein
— bonita applebum (@_byegone) May 9, 2018
Here’s a hot take: Why would anyone be mad at Scarlett johansson wearing Marchesa just because Weinstein’s (ex)estranged wife is the co-founder? She’s not her husbands keeper. It’s founded by two women. Let’s support that. #MetGala
— Dora Milaje (@dormilajeaf) May 9, 2018
Stop getting your panties in a twist over #ScarlettJohansson wearing #Marchesa
She is supporting the women who created it, not someone's ex douchebag… Plus the dress is stunning, & y'all know it!— Kayleigh Ev (@Dia_M_onD) May 9, 2018
I honestly love the fact that Scarlett Johansson wore this gorgeous Marchesa I think that in a way it's her saying women shouldn’t be penalized for the crimes of the men in their lives https://t.co/4VKesy1mRa
— ♡Keyura️♡ (@iwovsweets) May 9, 2018
What’s your take? Should critics be judging Johansson by her outfits, or her actions?
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