News Editor Uriah Shloim criticises Bianca Censori’s recent appearance at the Grammys, blaming Kanye West for its orchestration
The Grammys have long been a stage for high-fashion statements with artists showcasing the most prestigious designer brands. However, this year, Bianca Censori made headlines for all the wrong reasons, arriving uninvited in a completely sheer dress that left nothing to the imagination.
The recording academy enforces an ‘artistic, black-tie’ dress code, requiring attendees to cover their genitals, breasts, and buttocks – a rule Censori blatantly disregarded. Her shocking appearance not only disrespected the event’s standards but also diverted attention from artists who had rightfully earned their place in the spotlight. Fashion moments such as Chari XCX’s gladiator boots and Sabrina Carpenter’s old hollywood style dress, which deserved recognition, were overshadowed by the spectacle.
“The recording academy enforces an ‘artistic, black-tie’ dress code, requiring attendees to cover their genitals, breasts, and buttocks
Critics argue that Censori’s stunt undermined the artistry, talent and dedication that define the Grammys. However, I believe that this wasn’t merely an act of rebellion, but rather a calculated move orchestrated by her husband, Kanye West, as yet another attempt to manipulate the media narrative and seek attention. Censori went for a minimalist design, arriving in a black fur coat paired with a completely transparent dress. Her bold outfit evoked public controversy, with reactions ranging from TikTok users mocking the look to mainstream media platforms condemning the act as a potential violation of the law.
Following the eruption of public backlash, Kanye West – rapper and husband of Bianca Censori – claimed that she had ‘beat the Grammys’, which sparked public outrage. Pushing the boundaries of fashion has long been a hallmark of the Grammys, with past moments like Nicki Minaj arriving with a pope-like escort in 2013 and Lady Gaga making a grand entrance in an egg in 2011. However, Bianca Censori’s choice to appear nearly nude went beyond shock value and directly undermined the industry’s standards.
Censori has faced scrutiny for her fashion choices before, even receiving jail time in France for shopping nude. While fashion continues to evolve, and body positivity should be celebrated, there is a time and place for bold statements. The Grammys is a prestigious event that showcases elegance and high fashion, traditionally presenting designer brands and artistry. Opting for a nude outfit not only deviates from this norm but is widely seen as a sign of disrespect to the ceremony and the artists who work tirelessly to earn their place there.
“There is a time and place for bold statements
However, it is worth questioning whether Censori herself is entirely to blame. West appears to be the orchestrator behind her public appearances, directing her every move. Notably, all-post Grammy interviews were conducted by West, while Censori refused to speak, raising concerns about Censori’s personal autonomy.
Kanye has a history of exerting control over his partners’ wardrobes, from Kim Kardashian to Julia Fox. While some argue this stems from his deep passion for fashion, arguably this is used as part of a broader pattern of coercion and manipulation to serve his own agenda. Kanye West articulated Censori to suit his own agenda and lust for attention, with a defiance to the social standards in the most negative way possible. Censori’s appearance at the Grammys wasn’t just a personal fashion choice but was a calculated spectacle designed to redirect media attention back to West. This tactic is not new for him as he has previously relied on controversy – including antisemitic remarks and other heinous acts to keep the spotlight on him.
Arguably, Censori’s actions were a blatant sign of disrespect toward the Recording Academy – not only by disregarding the events universal dress code but also by undermining the artistry and style of the invited musicians. Her uninvited appearance shifted the spotlight away from those who had rightfully earned their place at the ceremony.
However, we must not ignore the influence of West, who seemingly orchestrated the stunt as yet another ploy for attention. His pattern of using controversy to dominate media narratives suggests that Censori’s appearance was less about personal expression, and more about fuelling his relentless pursuit of publicity. Kanye West’s relentless hunger for attention is a byproduct of his own success. With 24 Grammys, a near-billion dollar net worth and hundreds of hit singles, one might wonder, what more could he possibly crave? Yet, in the absence of artistic vision, he clings to controversy, relying on publicity stunts as a desperate means of staying relevant and satisfying his ego.
“Kanye West’s relentless hunger for attention is a byproduct of his own success
This is a dangerous pattern. His descent into antisemitic rhetoric was alarming enough, and now, his latest disrespectful fashion stunt only fuels concerns about what happens next. When controversy becomes the primary tool for maintaining influence, the consequences are unpredictable and deeply unsettling.
It is unfortunate that such spectacles continue to overshadow genuine talent and artistry. Hopefully, moving forward, the industry and the media will be more discerning in how they engage with calculated distraction. Ensuring that the focus remains on those who truly deserve it.
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