Jennifer Lawrence responds to dress criticism: ‘I am extremely offended’

‘Everything you see me wear is my choice’

Jennifer Lawrence has responded to criticisms regarding a photocall for her upcoming film Red Sparrow, in which the actress is pictured wearing a revealing dress on a London rooftop alongside her male colleagues, who are notably more wrapped up.

Writing on her Facebook page, the Academy Award-winning actress said she was “extremely offended” over the controversy caused by her choice to wear a Versace dress that she described as “gorgeous”.

“Wow. I don't really know where to get started on this ‘Jennifer Lawrence wearing a revealing dress in the cold’ controversy,” her post begins.

“This is not only utterly ridiculous, I am extremely offended.”

Responding to concerns that the 27-year-old must’ve been freezing when the photo was being taken, Lawrence said her decision to shun any outerwear was simply a case of wanting to show off a beautiful gown in all its glory.

“That Versace dress was fabulous,” she continued.

“You think I'm going to cover that gorgeous dress up with a coat and a scarf?

The picture that sparked a sexism debate (Rex Features)

“I was outside for five minutes. I would have stood in the snow for that dress because I love fashion and that was my choice.”

Lawrence described the response to the photo as “sexist”and “ridiculous”, adding that the criticisms were anti-feminist and that there were far more important things to focus on their her choice of clothing.

“Overreacting about everything someone says or does, creating controversy over silly innocuous things such as what I choose to wear or not wear, is not moving us forward,” she said.

“It's creating silly distractions from real issues. Get a grip people.

“Everything you see me wear is my choice. And if I want to be cold THATS MY CHOICE TOO!”

Elizabeth Hurley pictured in the original Versace gown with Hugh Grant at the premiere for Four Weddings and a Funeral in 1994 (Rex Features)

Lawrence’s post has already racked up more than 16,000 likes and been shared by hundreds of the actress’ loyal fans.

“You say it girlie! Sick of this crap and tabloid fodder! You ROCK! I would have bloody done the same, if I would fit in to one!” wrote one commenter.

“Had you opted for the coat and scarf, there would have been fashion police insulting how you disparaged the Versace line,” added another.

“It was a no-win situation, and I love seeing you stand behind your principles."