Martha Stewart is facing continued backlash after apologizing for wearing a Halloween costume depicting an unhoused person. Her original photos were deleted, but criticism has spread across both her personal Instagram account and her official branded account.
Stewart initially said the costume was intended to “bring more awareness to the very serious subject of homelessness.” She later removed that statement and posted a second apology, acknowledging that her earlier response had not gone far enough.
“It’s hard to admit when you’ve really screwed up,” Stewart wrote. “I know many people are suffering economically. Wearing a costume like I did was insensitive and not funny. I am very sorry.”
“Pose” star Indya Moore rejected Stewart’s explanation, arguing that a wealthy person dressing as someone experiencing homelessness highlighted the disconnect between wealth and poverty rather than encouraging empathy. Moore said Stewart’s excuse was not believable and described the apology as a “manipulative counterattack.”
Moore also criticized Stewart for addressing the loyalty of her followers instead of focusing solely on the costume. In Moore’s view, questioning the intentions behind the outfit was reasonable, and an apology that challenges those who were offended does not fully function as an apology.
Some Instagram users defended Stewart and described the costume as insignificant. Many others condemned the wording and presentation of her apology, with one commenter saying the incident had only highlighted how disconnected wealthy people are from much of the population. Others urged Stewart to take meaningful action on homelessness.
Criticism also appeared under posts on Stewart’s branded account. After the brand shared content about paint trends, users continued to object to the costume and apology. One accused Stewart of being tone-deaf, while another argued that a caption promoting HSN candles made the post appear focused on her brand and finances rather than homelessness.
Sources: Page Six.