The recent cover of Variety, featuring Elisabeth Moss, has sparked a wave of debate among fashion aficionados and casual observers alike. While the actress, best known for her role as June Osborne in The Handmaid's Tale, may have intended to showcase her return to the public eye, the reaction to her ensemble—a baby pink oversized blazer paired with a flowing blue floral dress—has been less than flattering. Critics on social media have targeted the stylist for what they perceive as a serious misstep, with some stating that the look did Moss "dirty."
Dressed in an outfit that juxtaposes boldness and whimsy, Moss's styling received swift backlash on platforms like X, where one user lamented, "I hope Variety fires the stylist and the photographer because what even is this." Comments varied from humorous critiques likening the look to that of a "pastor's wife at the local mega church" to sarcastically suggesting that the outfit bore resemblance to styles from Gilead, the dystopian setting of her acclaimed series. However, amidst the criticism, there were also voices of support, with some declaring their love for Moss’s fashion choice.
The timing of the cover is particularly noteworthy as it coincides with Moss's recent achievement of motherhood, having welcomed her first child. She confirmed her pregnancy during an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! in January 2024. Moss expressed immense gratitude for the support she received throughout her pregnancy, sharing details of how she was able to bring her newborn to the set while filming the final season of The Handmaid's Tale. As she stated during a PaleyFest LA panel, “So many parents cannot,” reflecting on the privilege of combining her professional life with her new role as a mother.
Moss's experiences as both a mother and an actress have naturally intertwined with her performance in The Handmaid's Tale. The emotional depth required for her portrayal of a woman struggling against oppressive societal norms mirrors her own life changes. Yet, while she has willingly opened up about motherhood, details such as the identity of her child's father or the precise date of birth remain elusive—a reflection of her desire to maintain privacy in an otherwise public life.
With final season buzz building, The Handmaid's Tale continues to resonate, exploring themes of autonomy and resistance against societal expectations. Critics may have panned Moss’s recent fashion choices, but her multifaceted identity as a new mother and a key player in a culturally significant series confirms her strong presence in the spotlight.
As the final episodes air, discussions about Moss’s styling might fade, but the legacy of her work—both as an actress and as a new mother—will likely endure. Amidst the flurry of social media comments, one reminder stands out: the complex narratives of women, whether in fictional worlds or in reality, demand understanding, compassion, and respect.
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Source: Noah Wire Services