Streetwear

Balenciaga Artistic Director Speaks Out On Child Ad Controversy

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In November of last year, Balenciaga found itself under fire after not one, but two offensive ad campaigns. First, it was the Gift Shop campaign that featured photos of children with inappropriate paraphernalia. Using toddlers as models, this series of advertisements captured images of the children holding bears seemingly dressed with BDSM gear. The background took place in a home setting and was scattered with a variety of items, including inappropriate props like wine glasses.

But, this poorly thought-through campaign wasn’t the only tasteless mistake made by Balenciaga. Only 5 days after the Gift Shop photos were released, Balenciaga also dropped their 2023 Garde-Robe ads. For this campaign, the brand opted for models Nicole Kidman and Bella Hadid. However, they still stirred up trouble. A photo of a Balenciaga x Adidas handbag sitting on a desk turned sour as soon as social media viewers recognized the paperwork that was sitting underneath. One was a copy of the 2008 Supreme Court ruling on US v. Williams, which banned the promotion of child pornography. In addition, the brand placed a book by Michaël Borremans on the desk. Borremans’ work is known to depict seemingly playful scenes of toddlers with a dark and violent twist.

Balenciaga Apologizes for “Unsettling” Mistakes

Evidently, both of these Balenciaga campaigns overtly shed light on a disturbing subject. While the fashion house has been known to spark debates over design choices (such as their crocs with heels), the undertones of these two advertisement concepts didn’t sit well with the internet. The brand eventually removed all images from the campaigns and released public apologies for the controversy.

In a recent interview with Vogue, Balenciaga’s artistic director Demna Gvasalia explained these “unintentional” mistakes. “Despite what many people may have suspected … never, ever would I have an idea to mess around with such an awful and horrible thing,” Demna says. His influence on the initial Gift Shop campaign was intended to be an homage to the “punk and DIY” cultures. As for the following handbag photo, Demna insists that all paperwork was supposed to be fake, and was received from a prop box. In an attempt to make up for their negligence, Balenciaga is actively working with the Kering Foundation and National Children’s Alliance.

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Diddy Wishes His “Shawty Wop” Yung Miami A Happy Birthday While She Poses In A Bikini On The Beach

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On February 11th, Yung Miami celebrated her 29th trip around the Sun. The “Twerkulator” artist is an expert at turning up. We’ve previously seen this throughout her career, and this year, her birthday celebrations have been non-stop. After partying with her friends, it now looks as though the mother of two is in baecation mode, soaking up the sun in the tropics with a certain friend.

Over the weekend, the City Girl shared an Instagram photo dump that finds her posing alongside a private jet in an emerald green two-piece set. After a few more fit pics, fans see a preview of the aircraft’s inside. It’s glamorously decorated with roses, balloons, a cake, and various other sweets. Miami also let the world know whose plane it is that she’s taking – in case they weren’t already aware – by flexing the Combs Air mat sitting beneath the plane’s stairs.

Caresha’s caption was nothing more than a row of birthday cake emojis. Still, in the comment section, her friends have had plenty to say. “Caresha! You love that man. You ain’t let us come and you got braids!” her partner in rhyme, JT, wrote. Elsewhere, Saweetie, Savannah James, Princess Love, Cuban Link, and more wished the rap diva a happy birthday.

It wouldn’t be a baecation without plenty of photos, and Miami has absolutely been delivering. The day after flaunting Diddy’s private jet and the goods he spoils her with on the ‘gram, she returned with some beautiful beach pictures and videos that see her sitting in the sand by the crystal blue water. Clearly in full party mode, the podcast host carries a mimosa in her hand as she casually strolls into the tropical ocean.

In the comment section of that post, the multi-talent made sure to send his “Shawty Wop” birthday greetings. Additionally, JT had more love to show her collaborator. India Royale and Trina were sure to shower the Florida native with plenty of attention too.

Yung Miami attends the Pre-GRAMMY Gala & GRAMMY Salute To Industry Icons Honoring Julie Greenwald & Craig Kallmanat at The Beverly Hilton on February 04, 2023 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Kayla Oaddams/WireImage)

Miami is obviously going all out for her birthday celebrations this year. Prior to her baecation with Combs, she threw a star-studded party earlier this month. Chrisean Rock was notably in attendance, as were various other well-known figures from the music industry.

Aside from the impressive guest list, fans also can’t stop talking about the massive diamond ring on her finger. Of course, she’s made it well known that she’s single, but clearly still loves to be spoiled on Diddy’s dime. Check out Caresha’s flashy new jewelry here, and tune in later for more pop culture news updates.

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Paraison Fontaine Rocks MSCHF Big Red Boots Amid Megan Thee Stallion Breakup Rumors

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Pardison Fontaine is the latest celebrity to rock MSCHF’s viral and controversial Big Red Boots. Moreover, the rapper and ghostwriter posted many pictures and short videos on his Instagram page with the footwear. For the caption, he wrote “Damn ..looks like I got da boot,” adding a laughing emoji at the end. Also, he tagged MSCHF and Entire Studios in his post, so perhaps it’s part of a larger partnership. However, most people online think it might refer to the closure of another partnership.

MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA – SEPTEMBER 07: Pardison Fontaine attends the 2022 BMI R&B/Hip-Hop Awards on September 07, 2022 in Miami Beach, Florida.(photo by Prince Williams/Wireimage)

Furthermore, Megan Thee Stallion sparked breakup rumors last week when she unfollowed Pardi on Instagram. Not much emerged since then, but maybe that’s the “boot” the New York native referred to. After all, the first pictures he posted with the boots show him on the phone, sitting on a flight of stairs. Many think it looks oddly similar to someone ejected from a room, home, or relationship. Still, it might all be fun and games, and there’s likely a lot happening behind the scenes that we’ll never know about. However, maybe that’s exactly the rumor that he’s playing with, and might just be trolling fans.

Pardison Fontaine & Meg’s Case

Despite these rumors, the 33-year-old will likely continue to support the Stallion. Moreover, he posted an Instagram message to women who, much like Megan, faced ridicule for their truth. “To any woman especially ones of color that has suffered an injustice I feel for you. When you do find the courage to speak up.. it seems you will be ridiculed. Your credibility will [be] questioned.. your entire past will be held under a magnifying glass. In an instant you can go from victim to defendant in the eyes of the public.”

“To any one with a daughter sister mother niece or aunt,” he added. “I pray for their protection, I pray for their covering, I wouldn’t wish this on anyone.” Meanwhile, Meg spoke of the effects her ordeal with Tory Lanez affected their relationship while on the stand. “I feel disgusted, I feel dirty, my own partner is embarrassed,” she admitted. “I can’t even be happy, I don’t want to talk to friends or family.” Check back in with HNHH for the latest on Pardison Fontaine and Megan Thee Stallion.

Cardi B & Offset Run To Catch Rihanna’s Super Bowl Show, Perform Together In Arizona

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If anyone had a wild Super Bowl weekend, it was obviously Cardi B. The New Yorker began her trip to Arizona by performing on Friday (February 10) evening at the same venue as Drake. The Canadian markedly kept the crowd’s energy high with a recreation of the show he put on at the Apollo Theatre. For her part, Bardi opted to give her audience some of her discography’s greatest hits.

By Saturday (February 11), the excitement for the NFL Championship game was undoubtedly running rampant. More and more celebrities and football lovers continued to pour into the city. Some of them even saw the mother of two performing alongside her husband, Offset. According to Daily Mail, they put on an impressive show at Wild Horse Pass Resort and Casino’s Hall Of Fame Party.

As per usual, the “Lick” collaborators were dressed to the nines. Cardi’s curvy figure looked immaculate in a shiny metallic dress. Her long jet-black hair was beautifully flowing behind her while she performed. The Migos rapper sported a black fit for the event, also layering plenty of flashy silver chains across his chest to flaunt his wealth.

They may have been on the clock during their set, but that didn’t stop the Hustlers actress and Offset from sharing some PDA. At one point, cameras caught them sharing a sweet smooch, though that’s nothing compared to other affectionate antics. While they were talking the pre-Grammys red carpet earlier this month, Cardi and her man made out as paparazzi cameras flashed away.

Offset and Cardi B attend the Pre-GRAMMY Gala & GRAMMY Salute To Industry Icons Honoring Julie Greenwald & Craig Kallman at The Beverly Hilton on February 04, 2023 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic)

She was obviously in her bag for most of Super Bowl weekend, but when game day came, the former stripper had her mind on one thing – Rihanna. In a video that’s circulating online, the 30-year-old does her best to sprint through a parking lot in a pair of bright pink heels. The reason for her panicked run? Ensuring that she didn’t miss the Bad Gal’s performance, of course.

The clip was originally uploaded to Cardi’s Instagram Story. It also sees Offset shuffling alongside her while she struggles to keep up. “Trying to make it [to] the halftime show,” she wrote over the comical upload. In the hours since Twitter users have been cracking endless jokes about the couple’s relatable behaviour.

“My God, Cardi looks tf good!!!! But this is just so hilarious… Cardi and Offset was NOT missing the Rihanna concert,” one person joked. “Damn Offset just pick her up. You slowly jogging like you wearing the shoes too,” another troll critiqued the father of five. Scroll further for more reactions, and check back later for more hip-hop news updates.

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Rihanna’s Baby Bump Is On Full Display In New Up-Close Photo From Super Bowl

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When the world found out that Rihanna was selected as the Halftime show performer for the 2023 Super Bowl, excitement immediately began to fly. Seeing as she’s had nine months to recover from the birth of her first baby, and delivered two beautiful new songs on the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack, many thought an album announcement would be tied into her concert. What we obviously didn’t expect from the 34-year-old was the revelation of another pregnancy.

Rihanna performs onstage during the Apple Music Super Bowl LVII Halftime Show at State Farm Stadium on February 12, 2023 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)

Shortly after the Bad Gal sang some of her greatest hits like “All of the Lights,” “Rude Boy,” and “Diamonds,” the internet began speculating that she’s with child again. Past headliners have performed undeniably intense choreography during their set. Rih, on the other hand, kept hers to a minimum. Viewers couldn’t help but notice the love she continuously showed to her budding belly.

After the Halftime show wrapped, a rep for the Barbadian singer confirmed to various outlets that she’s pregnant. This marks the second child for her and boyfriend A$AP Rocky. At the end of December, they shared the little one’s face on TikTok, though we still haven’t learned his name.

During her first pregnancy, Rihanna took plenty of bold style risks, putting her curvaceous figure on full display. She was obviously confident in showing off her body while expecting. Still, many details about her family life, including the baby’s gender, were kept under wraps until his birth last May. It remains unclear if she’ll take a different approach this time around. Thankfully, we’re already starting to see adorable maternity photos circulating online.

The Fenty designer’s manicurist for her Super Bowl show, Kimmie Kyees, shared a Reel on her Instagram late on Sunday (February 12) night. The clip begins with a revelation of the products she used on the “Lift Me Up” vocalist’s hands. Afterward, we see Rih singing and a close-up of her bright red nails cradling her baby bump.

Rihanna obviously isn’t the first iconic performer to take the stage at the Super Bowl. As it turns out, she relied on some of those who came before her while seeking inspiration. Specifically, the expecting mother watched Beyoncé’s 2013 concert that saw her bringing out Destiny’s Child to stun the crowd alongside her on repeat. Read more about that here, and check back later for more pop culture news updates.

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Lil Wayne & Coi Leray Step Out In MSCHF Big Red Boots: Photos

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Looks like Kanye West is getting the last laugh after all. After being relentlessly clowned for his own oversized black boots, the rapper’s contemporaries are finally catching on to his ahead-of-the-curve style. An increasing number of celebrities are stepping out in MSCHF’s Big Red Boots, including Lil Wayne.

Lil Wayne performs onstage at the NBA 2K23 Launch Event at Rolling Greens on September 07, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Greg Doherty/Getty Images for 2K)

Weezy is one of the most recent artists to hop on the trend. He’s taken fashion risks in the past, and his latest look is certainly raising some eyebrows. On Saturday (February 11), the “Lollipop” hitmaker wore his bright boots while filming a music video with NLE Choppa. The shoes were obviously the most interesting part of his OOTD. The rest consisted of a long white shirt and baggy yellow and black striped shorts.

As XXL notes, Wayne is (literally) following in the footsteps of Fivio Foreign. The New Yorker was clowned for wearing the MSCHF boots on TikTok. Regardless of the hate they’ve been getting, the trendy footwear continues to appear on social media. Surprisingly, the public doesn’t have access to them yet.

They’re going on sale later this week for $350 USD on the official MSCHF website. The release will take place on February 16th, so you have time to prepare your bank account. However, it’s worth noting that some resellers are already requesting over $2,000 for the highly anticipated boots.

If Wayne’s look hasn’t convinced you to purchase the BRBs, perhaps Coi Leray’s will. She also spent her Saturday stepping out in the viral, Astroboy-inspired footwear, pairing them with a black and white bodysuit and sheer tights. Not only did the Trendsetter model them, but she also proved that they’re easy to dance in while practicing with a crew behind her.

On her own Instagram feed, the Boston-born rap starlet posted a series of photos showing off her MSCHF shoes. At the same time, she thanked the Brooklyn Nets for having her at their game against the Philadelphia 76ers last night. See Coi’s Big Red Boots below, and let us know if you’ll be buying a pair later this month in the comments.

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Beyoncé Dons Black & White Balmain To Virtually Accept Her BRIT Awards: Video

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There’s no one doing it quite like Beyoncé. Since making a triumphant return to the stage during her legendary performance in Dubai, the “Telephone” singer has continued to prove that her talent truly knows no bounds. Most recently, her hard work was recognized on Saturday (February 11) night at the BRIT Awards.

Beyonce speaks on stage via video message as she receives the award for International Artist of the Year during The BRIT Awards 2023 at The O2 Arena on February 11, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Dave J Hogan/Getty Images)

The Texas-born star didn’t make the flight overseas to accept her trophies in person. Instead, she gave a virtual speech to the crowd in London. As Daily Mail notes, Queen B won in two categories – International Artist of the Year and International Song of the Year for “BREAK MY SOUL.” Though she didn’t walk the event’s red carpet, she still made sure to dress up in designer duds before snapping a few photos for the ‘gram.

While thanking those who gave her the awards, Beyoncé said, “Thank you so much for this incredible recognition. I’d like to say thank you to all of my friends out there in Britain for your continuous support over the years.” Afterward, she reminded viewers that this is only the beginning of RENAISSANCE‘s three acts. “I’ll see y’all on tour,” the Destiny’s Child alum promised. “Thank you so much for this honour!”

In her IG photo dump, Bey proudly poses with one of her sleek new trophies. Looking as fashionable as ever, her black and white Balmain outfit perfectly hugs her curvy hips and behind. On the unique dresses’ arms, striped fur creates an unmissable air of luxury and fun.

The majority of headlines surrounding Beyoncé lately have been focusing on her undeniably successful RENAISSANCE album. The project had an impressive run at the Grammy Awards. Consequently, it led the singer to tie the record for most trophies granted to one artist. However, that’s not all people have been talking about.

During a chat with Art of Dialogue, Big Gipp shared his thoughts on Bey’s marriage to Jay-Z. During the interview, he specifically said that, if Tupac were still alive, the “Baby Boy” hitmaker would be with him instead of Hov. Read the Atlanta rapper’s full thoughts on the matter here, and check back later for more music news updates.

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Rubi Rose Calls DDG A “Weirdo,” Denies Disliking Halle Bailey

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DDG is calling the internet “gullible” for believing the rumours about him and Halle Bailey ending their relationship. Despite his denial, however, the drama continues to surround the pair. Now, the rapper’s ex, Rubi Rose has entered the chat. Earlier this weekend, she seemingly called out the Michigan native for passing along one of her old shirts to his new boo.

The Little Mermaid actress recently posted a Story to her Instagram page. She wished her followers a good morning while sporting a bare face and a black and white tee. The clip’s focus is more on Bailey’s face than her outfit, but internet sleuths still quickly noticed the top is identical to one Rose previously wore in 2020. At the time, she posted a series of selfies with the caption, “I know he lying… But f*ck it I am too.”

Shortly after the R&B songstress posted her Story, DDG’s ex shared a telling message on her Twitter page. “Having [your] bitch [wear] my clothes is crazy lol,” she wrote on Saturday (February 11). Of course, followers instantly assumed the message had to be about Halle. “You coming for the little mermaid, your mentions ’bout to be a mess fr,” one person pointed out.

“She probably got that shirt off Fashion Nova just like you did, relax,” another troll chimed in. In her usual fashion, Rose didn’t hesitate to address the drama unfolding in her mentions. She firstly defended her typos in the initial tweet, explaining, “I’m still lit off the ‘migos bae, my b.” Then, in another post, made it clear that her beef is with her ex, not with his new girlfriend.

“I like Halle,” the 25-year-old confirmed in a short and sweet post. “DDG a weird tho fasho.” Unfortunately for her, fans of the YouTuber were quick to pull out receipts of movements when her behaviour was nothing short of unsavoury as well. Among them are screenshots of social media posts saying things like “DDG f*cks my p*ssy so good,” and “DDG got the best d*ck in the world.”

Those responses have received far less attention from Rose, though they continue to pour in on her page. Elsewhere online, some are taking advantage of Bailey’s breakup rumours, going so far as to create a Change.org petition demanding that she find a new man. It was officially launched earlier this week and has already received upwards of 1,600 signatures.

Halle Bailey and DDG attend the 5th Annual WACO Wearable Art Gala at Barker Hangar on October 22, 2022 in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Jerritt Clark/Getty Images for Wearable Art Gala)

“Halle Bailey is black royalty and she has a childish peasant attached to her,” creator Lindsey Williams wrote in the page’s description. “We want better for our princess. Her celebrity shouldn’t be used for YouTube views and clicks. She’s unproblematic and her childish (hopefully ex-boyfriend) thought it was funny to sub her when she’s about to have the biggest year ever.”

If you feel strongly enough, you can sign the petition for yourself here. Additionally, make sure to check back later for more pop culture news updates.

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Julia Fox Responds To Alexander Wang Backlash

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Julia Fox has responded to the backlash she’s received for walking on the runway for Alexander Wang at New York Fashion Week. Multiple people have accused the disgraced designer of sexual assault over the years. Wang’s show was not officially listed as an event for New York Fashion Week. However, over 150 guests still attended his runway show, including Anna Wintour, Nikita Dragun, and Ava Max. Fox remarked in a TikTok on Wang’s page that her outfit made her feel “like a sexy siren, ready to suck souls.”

After receiving backlash online for her affiliation with Wang, Fox responded in a comment on TikTok. She admitted that she feels Wang has put in the work to better himself as a person. She wrote: “I love cancel culture but we do need to leave room for rehabilitation and for those who put in the work and heal and learn from their mistakes.”

Julia Fox In New York City

NEW YORK, NY – FEBRUARY 10: Julia Fox is seen on February 10, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Rachpoot/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images)

Wang originally addressed the allegations back in 2021, promising to “set a better example” and “do better” going forward. He also met with 11 of his accusers. He wrote in his statement: “A number of individuals have come forward recently to raise claims against me regarding my past personal behavior. I support their right to come forward, and I’ve listened carefully to what they had to say. It was not easy for them to share their stories, and I regret acting in a way that caused them pain. While we disagree on some of the details of these personal interactions, I will set a better example and use my visibility and influence to encourage others to recognize harmful behaviors. Life is about learning and growth, and now that I know better, I will do better.”

Wang had his first fashion show post-allegations last year in Los Angeles. The new show is Wang’s first showing at New York Fashion Week in three years. In L.A., models Candice Swanepoel, Adriana Lima, and Alessandra Ambrósio walked for him.

Alexander Wang’s Statement

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Ice Spice Debuts New Hairstyle, Says She’s “Pretty Like Lauren”

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Ice Spice is perhaps best known for her signature ginger afro. However, the New York rapper’s high school yearbook photos prove she’s capable of pulling off more than just one look. In the images making rounds online, Isis Gaston smiles wide for the camera, rocking long, straight, black hair. Immediately after seeing the pictures, Twitter users began comparing the rap diva to You People actress Lauren London.

Interestingly, the Bronx baddie seemingly addressed the lookalike gossip before it even began making rounds. On her “In Ha Mood” single she raps, “Like, what? Let’s keep it a buck / Bitches too borin’, got ’em stuck in a rut / Lamborghini roarin’ when I hop out the truck / Pretty bitch like Lauryn with a big ass butt, yup.” Of course, there’s no last name drop in the line, but it’s safe to assume that Spice is self-aware enough to recognize her resemblance to the starlet.

On Friday (February 10) night, the Like..? artist surprised her 3.6M Instagram followers with a new series of selfies. While her hair is its usual ginger colour throughout the photo dump, she’s ditched her usually bouncy curls for a sleek, shoulder-length style complete with a slicked-down side bang. “Pretty like Lauren,” she wrote in the caption, referencing the internet’s ongoing conversation about her doppelganger.

As per usual, the upload finds Spice showing off her curvy figure. She sports a vintage Jean Paul Gaultier top, paired with army green khaki pants and crisp white sneakers. Just above the waistband of her bands, a tiny black thong peaks out. In the second image, the redhead gives a closer look at the view from the back as she gazes at the circular mirror hanging in front of her.

Other snapshots circulating online seem to show Spice in the same outfit filming an MTV show. Later that night, though, she sat with celebrity friends like Julia Fox and Richie Shazam at Dion Lee’s F/W 2023 RTW runway during New York Fashion Week. Seeing as the shows are just getting started, it’s entirely possible we could see more stellar looks from the rising star in the coming days.

Ice Spice, Julia Fox and Richie Shazam are seen in the front row at Dion Lee Fall 2023 Ready To Wear Fashion Show on February 10, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Lexie Moreland/WWD via Getty Images)

Scroll further to see Twitter’s thoughts on the Ice Spice and Lauren London comparisons. Afterward, share your thoughts on the discourse in the comments. Finally, make sure to check back later for more pop culture and music news updates.

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