The Met Gala is known for its daring fashion choices, but BLACKPINK’s Lisa found herself embroiled in controversy during her 2025 debut. The event, usually a celebration of couture, sparked a fierce online debate after fans and critics questioned whether Lisa’s attire featured an image of Rosa Parks on her undergarments, and why Louis Vuitton would make such a decision.

Lisa’s Met Gala 2025 Look: The Details

As a global ambassador for Louis Vuitton, Lisa attended the 2025 Met Gala in a stunning custom outfit. Her look included a chic black bodysuit, a tailored long-sleeved jacket, tights emblazoned with the LV logo, and a pearl-and-gold waist chain. She accessorized with a monogrammed mini bag, embodying elegance and confidence during fashion’s premier event. The attire, created in partnership with renowned artist Henry Taylor, aimed to honor the event’s theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” by highlighting influential individuals and tailored menswear.

Spotlight on the Controversy: Rosa Parks Imagery

Controversy erupted after high-definition photos showed what seemed to be Rosa Parks’ face, the legendary American civil rights leader, printed on Lisa’s underwear beneath her sheer tights. Social media was soon flooded with allegations of disrespect and cultural insensitivity, with many users labeling the choice as “tone-deaf” and “inappropriate.” The decision received widespread criticism not just toward Lisa but also her styling team, Louis Vuitton, and her PR firm. Many felt that placing Rosa Parks’ image on an undergarment diminished her legacy, which is closely tied to the struggle for racial equality.

Blackpink’s LISA at the Met Gala 2025.#LISAxMetGala2025#MetGala #MetGala2025 #Blackpink #블랙핑크 #Lisa #리사 pic.twitter.com/zssvIFUMHL

— Korean Kavi and Chingu (@imesha_kavi) May 6, 2025

Louis Vuitton’s Explanation: Artistic Intent or Misstep?

In response to the backlash, Louis Vuitton clarified that the portraits featured on Lisa’s outfit were created by artist Henry Taylor and were originally commissioned for the brand’s Spring 2024 collection by creative director Pharrell Williams. According to the fashion house, the faces depicted are “figures who have been a part of the artist’s life,” though they did not specifically confirm whether Rosa Parks was among them. This ambiguity left room for speculation, as the resemblance to Parks was strong enough to prompt widespread belief and outrage. The intention, according to Louis Vuitton, was to honor influential figures through artful embroidery, but the lack of clear communication about the identities of those depicted contributed to the controversy.

Fashion, Culture, and Sensitivity: Where Did It Go Wrong?

The incident highlights the delicate balance between artistic homage and cultural insensitivity. While fashion often draws on historical and cultural references, the placement and context of such imagery matter deeply. In this case, the decision to feature what appeared to be Rosa Parks’ likeness on underwear-an intimate and easily sensationalized garment-was widely interpreted as disrespectful, regardless of the artistic intent. The episode underscores the importance of cultural awareness in global fashion, especially when referencing figures whose legacies are tied to struggles for dignity and justice. For Louis Vuitton and Lisa, the backlash serves as a reminder that even well-intentioned tributes can miss the mark if not handled with care and transparency.

LISA stunned at the 2025 Met Gala, turning heads with her avant-garde ensemble and confident presence.

The BLACKPINK star embraced the theme with elegance, securing her spot as a fashion icon of the night.#lisa #blackpink #jennie #jisoo #rose #kpop #blink #bts #ros #lalisa pic.twitter.com/Q0g03rpOlT

— Actress Queens (@actresscwens) May 6, 2025