Scarlett Johansson defends decision to wear Marchesa to Met Gala

‘It is my pleasure to support a brand created by two incredibly talented and important female designers’

(Rex Features)

Scarlett Johansson has spoken out about her decision to wear a gown by Marchesa - the label co-founded by Georgina Chapman, estranged wife of Harvey Weinstein - to this year’s Met Gala.

The American actress donned an ethereal burgundy dress, complete with a tulle skirt and off-the-shoulder neckline - and instantly drew criticism for choosing to sport a designer so closely-linked to the disgraced Hollywood mogul.

In light of the allegations of sexual assault pending against Weinstein, few celebrities have been seen wearing Marchesa, however, Johansson has said it was a “pleasure” to support the brand on the night.

"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,” the 33-year-old said in a statement given to E! News.

The American brand, which was also co-founded by Keren Craig, responded by releasing a similar statement expressing their delight at Johansson’s choice:

"We are truly honoured that Scarlett chose to wear Marchesa for the Met Gala.

(Rex Features (Rex Features)

“She is an amazingly talented actor who has incredible style and presence. It was wonderful to work so closely with her in creating this custom look."

However, Johansson's decision has garnered a flurry of criticism online, with fans accusing the actress of hypocrisy given that she publicly supports the #TimesUp movement and was the first person to wear the controversial brand at a high profile event.

“Wow Scarlett Johansson...Marchesa?? Are you serious? Such a thoughtless, problematic person, lest we forget Woody Allen is her favourite person to work with,” one person wrote on Twitter.

“Scarlett Johansson (times up supporter) wears a Marchesa dress to the #METGALA18 , marking the first time a Marchesa dress has been worn at a high profile event since the Weinstein scandal,” another added.

“Marchesa was heavily funded by Weinstein - the catalyst to the @TIMESUPNOW movement.”

However, others made the point of distinguishing between the fashion label and the actions of its co-founder’s estranged husband, questioning why Chapman should be “punished” for Weinstein’s alleged assaults.

“That's pretty major of her and I hope it's the end of the icing out of the brand,” one person wrote.

“Georgina Chapman and Keren Craig are NOT responsible for Harvey Weinstein. Stop punishing them.”

“I hope more let Marchesa stand on its own feet free from Weinstein," another added.

“They are being punished for his crimes when Georgina is divorcing him. Sad that Weinstein used the brand abusively with actresses. Hard to overcome.”

Johansson's choice to wear the brand comes after Weinstein was accused of threatening Hollywood stars, such as Sienna Miller, into wearing his wife's designs to red carpet events.

Marchesa was due to present its autumn/winter 2018 collection in a runway show at New York Fashion Week in February, however, the label pulled out at the last minute.

At the time, The New York Post reported that Chapman made the decision to cancel the catwalk show because “she was too scared” in light of the allegations and “couldn’t go through” with it.

Chapman released a statement in October, when public allegations against her husband of 10 years first surfaced, announcing she would be leaving him.

“My heart breaks for all the women who have suffered tremendous pain because of these unforgivable actions,” she told People magazine.

“I have chosen to leave my husband. Caring for my young children is my first priority and I ask the media for privacy at this time.”