This “Sexy” Handmaid’s Tale Costume Has Been Removed After Backlash
Halloween is still a month and a half away, and already the first problematic costume of the season has reared its head online. This time by way of Yandy's "Sexy Handmaid's Tale" character. Thankfully, after some swift backlash online, it was removed from the company's website within a few hours.
The costume is inspired by the Brave Red Maiden look worn on Handmaiden's Tale, but instead of the full head-to-toe coverage that's required in the show’s dystopian universe, designers made a few significant (and problematic) changes. The costume features a short red dress with fishnet stockings, a floor-length cape and the white bonnet worn by the women on the show. Clearly, it doesn't evoke quite the same sentiments as the outfit in its original form
“An upsetting dystopian future has emerged where women no longer have a say," the description on the website read, per Hello Giggles. "However, we say be bold and speak your mind in this exclusive Brave Red Maiden costume featuring a red mini dress, a matching cloak with an attached hood, and a white bonnet headpiece.”
Twitter quickly took note of the look, and was understandably very, very angry. "I can't decide if this misses the point of The Handmaid's Tale, or encapsulates it completely," wrote one user. "It's just sad how social commentary in an existential moment for this country gets reduced to sheer stupidity so quickly. Not the same as angel wings. Get real," shared another.
Considering how intense the backlash was, Yandy removed the costume from their website and issued the following statement:
Teen Vogue has reached out to the brand for comment.
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