Oscar-winning actor Helen Mirren could also be identified for her monumental performing abilities, together with her gorgeous portrayal in “The Queen,” however she let followers down on the 2004 Emmys with an outfit that got here throughout as being tasteless. In reality, some would say it is one of many most inappropriate outfits in Emmys history. Why? She wore a saree, the standard South Asian clothes piece, which might be deemed cultural appropriation if Mirren wore it with out understanding or appreciating its context. Add to that the truth that Mirren is English and the British have a protracted historical past of colonizing and exploiting India, and this look grew to become much more inappropriate.
Gregg Deguire/GettyBut some South Asian fashion consultants, together with the face behind Indian model Surreal Styles, consider that we should not cry “fashion foul” too quick. If the wearer understands the cultural significance of sporting the draped cloth piece, then sarees aren’t mechanically problematic. In one Reddit dialogue, a consumer defined, “If you’re invited to an event that calls for a sari by your neighbours, wear it after you’ve discussed it with them, but I wouldn’t wear one casually.” However, others consider that they may also be worn in day-to-day life, with one sharing, “… whenever one of my non Indian friends wants to learn about culture or take part of it, older women are excited to include him/her … Even if you weren’t born Indian, if you at interested in it, I say go for it. Just make sure you are educated on what you’re doing.”
But for a British girl at an American awards present? Doesn’t look like Mirren was an envoy of cultural appreciation at a major Indian event. If it had been as much as us, we might say Mirren ought to have erred on the facet of sensitivity and opted for one thing else.
Helen Mirren has delivered way more tasteful appears since
As far as we’re conscious, Helen Mirren, who turned 80 in 2025, has by no means publicly commented on why she wore a saree to the 2004 Emmys. Thankfully, nevertheless, she hasn’t dedicated the fake pas once more. In reality, Mirren has had many gorgeous appears all through her celebrated profession (we’ll brush previous her 1997 flop that landed her on the listing of worst Golden Globes looks of all time).
One of her elegant outfits was a purple Dolce & Gabbana costume for the 2016 White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner, which was simply one in all many occasions she’s chosen the regal hue. Another tasteful decide was the black Escada robe with gold gildings that she wore to the 2014 SAG awards, touchdown her on a number of best-dressed lists all over the world. Both moments show that this L’Oréal spokesperson is one in all the famous older women who don’t seem to age. Presumably, nevertheless, her sensitivities and consciousness have matured over time.
