Stewart Apologizes for Homeless Halloween Look
The lifestyle icon said she intended to raise awareness about homelessness but was distressed by the online reaction to her costume.
By Christopher Singh ·
Martha Stewart issued a response on Sunday regarding the online criticism surrounding her Halloween costume. The designer and businesswoman shared a photograph on Instagram showing herself in tattered clothing. She held a sign that read, “I AM HUNGRY HELP ME!!” while wearing makeup designed to resemble dirt on her face.
The image appeared as the third slide in a carousel promoting her candle collection on QVC. Stewart captioned the post by stating, “My QVC candles are perfect for Halloween!!!” She removed the post shortly after publishing it, but screenshots of the outfit quickly spread across social media platforms.
Many observers interpreted the attire as a mockery of poverty. Some critics described the choice as out of touch, while others used the term dystopian to characterize the look. Stewart addressed the specific offense caused by the image in a statement provided to NBC News.
She stated that she was distressed to learn her Halloween costume had offended people. Stewart explained that the outfit was intended to bring more awareness to the serious subject of homelessness. She emphasized that causing offense was never her intention.
The media personality added that homelessness continues to be one of America’s greatest challenges. She noted that she has spent significant time and effort supporting charities that combat what she called an ongoing social epidemic. Stewart said she remains committed to making a difference in the area.
The incident occurred alongside other costume-related controversies from the weekend. Content creator McCall DaPron also faced backlash for a family Halloween outfit. DaPron, who is set to star in an upcoming spinoff of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, dressed as Jackie Kennedy. She wore an all-pink blazer, skirt, and pillbox hat, mirroring the outfit the former first lady wore on the day President John F. Kennedy was assassinated.
DaPron posed with a bouquet of red roses beside her husband, Kirk DaPron, who dressed as the former president. Their children were dressed as Caroline Kennedy, John F. Kennedy Jr., and Secret Service agents. DaPron captioned the since-deleted post, “Happy Halloween 勺The Kennedy’s.” Commenters on Reddit called the ensemble gross and disrespectful, with one user noting that including the children made the choice seem weird.
