Sorry for Halloween homeless costume, Martha Stewart says she really screwed up
Stewart responds to criticism
In a statement posted on Sunday, Stewart said she was distressed that her Halloween costume had upset people. She said raising awareness of homelessness was her aim, and that causing offence was not intended.
Her original Instagram post included a caption promoting her QVC candles for Halloween. The outfit was described as a portrayal of a homeless person.
Online reaction turns critical
Public relations expert Molly McPherson called the costume insulting, demeaning and confusing. Another commenter asked who Stewart thought would find it funny, suggesting billionaires might. The criticism focused on the way homelessness was represented. Stewart’s statement acknowledged that people had been offended, despite her stated intention.
A brand rebuilt over time
Stewart briefly became a billionaire after her company, Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, entered the stock market in 1999. She has since sought to restore her brand.
Key points
- Stewart said the costume was meant to raise awareness of homelessness.
- She apologized after people said the outfit was offensive.
- Molly McPherson described the costume as demeaning and confusing.
- Stewart has pursued television and food projects while rebuilding her brand.