Priyanka Chopra responds to criticism and defends decision to wear Marchesa dress to bridal shower

‘It was the right choice’

(Getty Images for Tiffany and Co)

Priyanka Chopra has responded to criticisms over her decision to wear a dress by Marchesa, the fashion brand co-founded by Georgina Chapman, estranged wife to disgraced Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein.

The Indian actor chose to wear a white strapless gown from the label for her bridal shower, which was celebrating her impending nuptials to musician Nick Jonas.

After Marchesa posted a photo on Instagram of the outfit, Chopra was met with a furore of criticism as people accused her of supporting a label with close ties to Weinstein, who faces numerous charges of sexual assault, which he denies.

Now, the 36-year-old has spoken to Women’s Wear Daily about the backlash, explaining that Chapman is a friend of hers “and it’s not her fault”.

She continued: “I don’t think it is right to take it out on a self-made woman what somebody in her life did.

“That’s the wrong attitude. [And] that was a beautiful gown and deserved to be worn by a bride-to-be.

“It made me feel like a princess. It was the right choice”.

Chopra paired the feather-skirted gown with a diamond necklace and nude stiletto heels.

Scarlett Johansson faced similar criticisms when she wore a Marchesa gown to this year’s Met Gala in May, making her the first celebrity to support the brand since the allegations against Weinstein emerged.

The American actor opted for a burgundy off-the-shoulder dress with a tulle skirt.

Some people expressed disappointment at Johansson’s decision to wear a garment from Chapman’s brand, labelling it “thoughtless”.

Johansson pictured at The Met Gala on 7 May 2018 (Getty Images)

But the Lost in Translation star quickly defended her choice, telling E! News: "I wore Marchesa because their clothes make women feel confident and beautiful and it is my pleasure to support a brand created by two incredibly talented and important female designers”.

Her comments garnered a wave of support on social media, with one person writing on Twitter; “She shouldn’t have to defend anything. Harvey’s ex-wife is not responsible/should not be punished for his actions”.

Another added: “I hope more let Marchesa stand on its own feet free from Weinstein”.