"SM, you're f***ing done."
aespa Giselle sparked controversy for wearing an outfit that has the text "porn star" on it.
Recently, the group found themselves at the center of controversy when member Giselle wore an outfit adorned with belts displaying the vulgar words.
SOURCE
This fashion choice sparked significant backlash from fans and observers alike, questioning the appropriateness and message behind such attire.
SOURCE
The controversy erupted after Giselle posted a TikTok video showcasing her dance moves to the group's upcoming Japanese single, "Hot Mess," while wearing the contentious outfit.
Critics immediately took to social media, condemning SM Entertainment, aespa's management agency, for what they deemed as an insensitive and provocative styling decision.
Among the detractors was a vocal segment of fans who expressed disappointment and anger towards the choice of attire, labeling it as inappropriate and potentially harmful to Giselle's image.
One fan tweeted:
"SM you're actually f***ing done... fire this stylist immediately this ain't even a joke."
Another voiced concern:
"Y tf would you do this @SMTOWNGLOBAL? Why put her in a position to be mocked and sexualized when she already is?? Shame on you. #Justice4Giselle."
However, the context behind Giselle's outfit tells a more complex story. The ensemble in question originates from Namilia's "pfoten weg!" collection, debuted earlier this year. This collection, according to Namilia, aims to empower individuals who face judgment and harassment for their fashion choices, especially queer and femme communities.
aespa 에스파 ‘Hot Mess’ Teaser Images
— aespa (@aespa_official) June 23, 2024
aespa 에스파 Japan Debut Single 〖Hot Mess〗
aespa日本デビューシングル 「Hot Mess」
➫ 2024.07.03 0AM (KST/JST)
🔗 https://t.co/f8A8JUnKuX
💿 https://t.co/hna5we4RKE#aespa #æspa #에스파 #エスパ#WINTER #윈터 #NINGNING #닝닝 #HotMess… pic.twitter.com/zqmYSrcrPd
The words on the belts, including "porn star," are intended to reclaim derogatory terms and challenge societal norms about how people, particularly women and queer individuals, should dress and be perceived in public spaces.
Context is key, fam! 🙅♀️ Giselle's bold look sparks controversy, but it's a fashion statement for empowerment not assumption 💁♀️🔥 https://t.co/SYmLssRp6p pic.twitter.com/FhNwWO1dLA
— CelebSnap K 🌟🌟🌟 (@CelebSnapFan) June 27, 2024
Supporters of aespa and the collection were quick to defend Giselle and the group's stylistic choices.
They pointed out that the "pfoten weg!" collection aligns with aespa's image of empowerment and boundary-pushing within the K-Pop industry.
y’all need to relax, this is “Pfoten Weg!” collection - literally a statement against hatred of women and queer people 😄 https://t.co/rKevI0fcoW
— 🥀 (@aericenter) June 27, 2024
Fans highlighted the collection's message of inclusivity and its intent to challenge stereotypes, emphasizing that the outfit should be interpreted as a statement against discrimination rather than a promotion of it.
aespa wearing looks from namilia’s "pfoten weg!" collection against hatred of women & queer people pic.twitter.com/Ecrv5Ng2jG
— victor ☆ seeing dpr (@nyumingi) June 23, 2024
In response to the backlash, some fans urged others to understand the deeper meaning behind the fashion choice before passing judgment.
One fan wrote:
"Look I may be clocking in to business whenever Giselle gets bullshit and this is not it."
Ultimately, aespa's bold fashion choices continue to provoke discussion and debate, reflecting the group's commitment to pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms.
While initial reactions may have been negative, the deeper context of empowerment and inclusivity provided by the "pfoten weg!" collection suggests that aespa's fashion statements are not just about style, but also about making meaningful statements in support of marginalized communities.
KpopStarz owns this article.
Written by Cassidy Jones.