Sunday, June 8, 2014

The Curious Case of Rihanna & "The See Thru Dress"- A Brief Outtake*

Not the first and probably NOT the last celebrity to be caught on the red carpet in questionable attire, Pop Star Rihanna may have recently outdone herself at this year's CFDA ceremony by wearing a fully transparent & Swarovski Crystal embellished gown designed by industry newcomer Adam Selman. While many critics & fans alike have blogged, tweeted & "Facebook liked" to highlight their approval of the dress, others have expressed their dismay & disgust.


So what gives? Why such the strong & sometimes offensive responses?  Is the main cause of issue the fact that she wore a see thru ensemble? or is it that she herself chooses to evoke all things sexual? would this dress have made such an impact if it had been worn by someone A. other than Rihanna or B. with less notoriety than Rihanna or C. Someone with a "not so commercially accepted" body type?  The core issue seems to lie in the fact that someone that has a noted reputation for all things seemingly "sexual", "shocking", "hypersexual", "risque" & "erotic" chose to AGAIN exploit such preconceived notions by donning a see thru dress to a fashion awards ceremony where she's being honored as an icon.....if Beyonce, Dita Von Teese or Lady Gaga had worn it, would it be perceived as good or bad? There is no clear cut rule of thumb that defines what it means to be a Feminist.....Some may believe that Feminism means having the freedom to wear a see thru dress and to not be labeled a "Whore" for doing such ,while others may believe that covering up and being recognized for your talents as opposed to your body is the true meaning of Feminism. Either way, we can't tell a woman that she can be whatever she wants to be and then become upset when some choose to go topless at parties before choosing to go Ivy League...Feminism lies in the ability to choose. 

What are your thoughts? Feel free to leave a comment......

Written in response to a Huffingtonpost.co.uk article written by Poorna Bell
you may read it by clicking here