On Sunday night, many famous faces both men and women opted for a black dress code in order to show their support with the Time’s Up movement about ending sexual harassment and gender inequality.
Many well-loved celebrities including Claire Foy, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Kelly Clarkson, Alison Brie, Jamie Chung, Meryl Streep and more decided to come out in full force and show their support of the #MeToo movement on one of the biggest stages of the year.
However, one actress Bianca Blanco decided to turn up in a sultry, red, satin number and as a result, faced a nasty backlash for her dress decision.
In a statement to Fox News, Blanco told reporters: “I love red. Wearing red does not mean I am against the movement. I applaud and stand by the courageous actresses that continue to break the cycle of abuse through their actions and fashion style choices. It is one of many factors leading women to a safer place because of their status. I am excited about the Time’s Up movement; true change is long overdue.”
However, this wasn’t enough still for some fans, as they believed her dress choice was disrespectful towards the campaign. But surely causing offense to Bianca over her dress choice is ironically part of the same problem: a woman is being made to feel guilty for dressing how she wants. Yes, while it can be argued Blanco was ignorant to a good cause, the criticism the young woman has received is unfair.
Stating that she is a supporter of the Times Up movement anyway, Blanco should be forgiven for this slip-up even if she deliberately chose to wear red just to gain attention from the event.
Because until we stop criticising women and blaming them for the way they want dress or for the unconventional choices they make, women will never be free from sexual misconduct; and this needs to change now.
> Maria Collins
