Wednesday 27 June 2012

Was Karl Lagerfield's comment a bit too much?




Here’s a classic example of when a seemingly harmless comment becomes starkly contentious and offensive (or was it?)
Earlier this month the outspoken German fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld caused quite a stir with his controversial remarks surrounding the six time Grammy winner, Adele.
In an exclusive interview with Metro Paris the Chanel designer stated: “The thing at the moment is Adele. She is a little too fat, but she has a beautiful face and a divine voice.”
At least he complimented her talent, but fans of the British singer were outraged at his arguably reckless comment.
Lagerfeld is known to have had experienced weight problems himself and is now recognised for his notorious “Karl Lagerfield diet” that allegedly helped him lose 92 pounds in 13 months. What's more is that he has previously criticised overweight women before in a debate surrounding his use of ultra-thin models on the runway. He defended himself and his fashion line stating: "What I created was fashion for slim, slender people."
Adele stood her ground in an interview in More Magazine asserting that: “I've never wanted to look like models on the cover of magazines. I represent the majority of women and I'm very proud of that.”
Lagerfeld attested ideas sparked off by his comments in another interview with the Metro, apologising to the singer and claiming that his words were taken out of context. He said: “I’d like to say to Adele that I am your biggest admirer. Sometimes when you take a sentence out of the article it changes the meaning of the thought.”
In hindsight, some might say he is a little too outspoken with further comments surrounding German men: “If I was a woman in Russia I would be a lesbian, as the men are very ugly.”
Whilst Lagerfeld may consider himself innocent, the actual question lies in the very nature of the comment. When is it OK to criticize someone's body image and when is it ever OK for a fashionista such as Lagerfeld to announce his actual opinions on overweight women? Is it OK to simply state such things without expecting an adverse reaction, or are we too 'sensitive'?
Ironically enough, Lagerfeld also shared his thoughts on politically correct language, deeming it a bore.
It’s not surprising, really..
Adele on the other hand looks fabulous! Just check out her latest cover for Vogue!

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