Entertainment

The Story Behind Olivia Culpo’s Minimalist Wedding Dress That Sparked Online Debate

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4m ago

Jul 13, 2024 / 2518 Views

Evan Walker

American model Olivia Culpo recently tied the knot with Christian McCaffrey and has set a new benchmark in bridal fashion, by embracing the essence of minimalism with her stunning Dolce & Gabbana gown. In a world where extravagance often reigns supreme, Culpo’s choice is a refreshing ode to simplicity and grace.

While Culpo made for a stunning bride on her happy day, the internet was left divided over her viral wedding dress.

Olivia Wedding — Image Credit: Jose Villa

Olivia Culpo’s Wedding Dress: A Bold Minimalist Statement That Divided Opinions

Culpo’s Dolce & Gabbana wedding gown was a study in understated beauty. A combination of traditional elements with a modern aesthetic, the long sleeves and crewneck of the crepe ball gown created a modest and timeless silhouette, while the voluminous skirt added a touch of classic bridal grandeur. The button-lined back and the 16-foot lace veil were the epitome of elegance, adding subtle details that enhanced the dress without overpowering it. This balance of simplicity and sophistication is a testament to the skill of Dolce & Gabbana’s atelier team, who crafted a gown that perfectly matched Olivia’s vision.

Olivia explained to Vogue, “I didn’t want it to exude sex in any way, shape, or form. I wanted it to feel effortless and as if it’s complementing me, not overpowering me.” This decision marked a significant departure from her typically glamorous red carPet looks, highlighting her desire for a more intimate and personal expression on her wedding day.

Internet Backlash and Controversy

Despite her clear vision and satisfaction with the dress, the internet was abuzz with mixed reactions. Critics argued that the dress was too plain for someone known for her bold fashion choices. Some comments focused on her emphasis on being “covered,” with detractors suggesting it was inconsistent with her usual style. The stark contrast between her usual style and her wedding dress led to discussions about the expectations placed on public figures and iNFLuencers.

Influencer Kennedy Bingham’s Viral Critique

The controversy escalated when wedding stylist Kennedy Bingham, also known as Gown Eyed Girl, criticised Olivia’s dress in a viral TikTok video. Bingham remarked, “I have been a bridal creator for four years now, and I’ve never said this before, but I do not like this wedding dress.” She argued that Olivia’s comments about the dress seemed to be “marketing and pushing this conservative agenda,” and that the dress lacked personality. Bingham also highlighted past controversies surrounding Dolce & Gabbana, accusing the fashion house of homophobia and racism, which further fuelled the debate.

Other critics targeted Olivia’s makeup—or lack thereof. In her Vogue interview, Olivia mentioned skipping mascara, lip liner, and brow tint for a more natural look. TikTokers like Jessica Weslie Arena pointed out that Olivia likely had treatments like a lash lift to achieve this look, with Arena stating, “I’m going to need Vogue to be astronomically real right now, because we know Olivia Culpo has had a lash lift—like, please zoom in.” This critique added another layer to the controversy, questioning the authenticity of Olivia’s minimalist approach.

A Right to Critique?

The backlash raises an important question: do people have the right to critique a personal and deeply meaningful choice like a wedding dress? As a public figure and iNFLuencer, Olivia’s choices are often under scrutiny, but a wedding dress is a deeply personal decision. Critics might argue that as an iNFLuencer, every public choice she makes is open to commentary. However, it’s crucial to recognise the distinction between her public persona and her personal life. A wedding dress should reflect the bride’s authentic self, not the expectations of her followers. Olivia’s dress choice reflects broader trends in modern bridal fashion, where personal values and comfort take precedence over societal expectations.