In a recent Instagram post, Kim Kardashian showed off a set from her Skims collab with Dolce & Gabanna. Her look–a bra paired with lace leggings layered with boxer shorts–was accompanied by a cross necklace with rosary beads.
Her followers were quick to critique the fashion choice. One user commented, “Uhm have you ever done a research on rosary before tak[ing] a half nude picture with?? That’s beyond shameful!” Many others expressed similar offense, imploring her to take it off.
Not everyone had an issue with Kim’s new post. In a TikTok covering the controversy, the comment section included the sentiments, “what? porn stars can’t be religious?” and, “as if we weren’t born naked. ppl need to retire this more clothes = more religious tone. it’s so tired.”
Kim K is not the only celebrity to face backlash for incorporating religious imagery in their looks. In April, Rihanna came under fire for her feature on the cover of Interview Magazine. The singer was dressed in a habit, portraying a sexy nun with her unbuttoned top, bright red lipstick, and a cross tattoo on her cheek. Many found it to be inappropriate, as in the Christian religion, nuns are women who dedicate their lives to religious services and take vows of chastity.
The response to Rihanna’s magazine cover mirrored the criticism currently aimed at Kim Kardashian. Similar sentiments were expressed under Rihanna’s post, including comments that accused her of mocking Christianity and aestheticizing religion.
Christianity, like every other religion, has many different denominations and interpretations. Some Christians don’t have a problem with celebrities posing with religious iconography, but others took issue with Kim Kardashian’s outfit. In these situations, it’s important to respect the nuances that come with religion while not dismissing the concerns of those who were offended.
Kim Kardashian has yet to address the backlash.
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