The BAFTAs was the latest awards show to implement a blackout in solidarity with the Time’s Up movement. Stars like Angelina Jolie, Margot Robbie, and Lupita Nyong’o showed up on the red carpet in their best black dresses; many also wore Time’s Up pins. Meanwhile, Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton is being criticized for not following the dress code.
The duchess arrived in a dark green Jenny Packham gown accessorized with a black sash belt and clutch. According to Elle, Kate “isn’t allowed to show any political affiliation or bias” as part of the royal family. However, UNILAD noted that the Time’s Up movement isn’t affiliated to any political party, so Kate may face backlash for her outfit choice.
Either way, netizens had varying reactions to it. One emphasized that standing up against sexual harassment in the workplace isn’t political, but something that women should fight against. Journalist Rachel McGrath also called out Kate for not wearing black for a few hours at the BAFTAs.
Meanwhile, many also defended Kate’s decision and explained the strict royal protocol. Netizens praised Kate for choosing the dress that she wanted to wear. At the same time, finding a middle ground with the color and accessories to show support to the Time’s Up movement.
The Duchess of Cambridge has always been vocal with causes close to her heart. One is the Head’s Up charity, which aims to end the mental health stigma. So it’s understandable for people to question her stand on sexual harassment in the workplace.
But this also raises the question: Should an outfit choice define your stance in social issues?
Actress Blanca Blanco was also criticized earlier this year for wearing a red gown at the Golden Globes. To which she responded, “The issue is bigger than my dress color.” She also got the support of fans, saying that the people who shamed her were part of the problem. And they made some valid points.
Maybe Kate did wear black accessories and a darker shade of green as a subtle nod to Time’s Up without breaking protocol. It’s also important to note that the Royal Family has spoken out about sexual harassment too. In the BAFTA’s program foreword, Prince William referenced the movement as “a year when many brave people spoke up about bullying, harassment and abuse.” Likewise, the Duchess of Cornwall Camilla has been an active voice against rape and sexual assault, and pledging support for victims since 2015.
What do you think? Should people give Kate Middleton a free pass for not wearing all-black at the BAFTA Awards? Or did she lose the opportunity to show her support to the cause?
Art by Lara Intong
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