Donna Karan says sorry for defending Harvey Weinstein amid barrage of criticism and calls for boycott of her fashion products
Designer’s initial response to report of sexual harassment by film producer was to say real issue was provocatively dressed women who asked for trouble; she’s now apologised to sex harassment victims and ‘anyone that I offended’
On Sunday, Karan suggested women had been seeking a reaction from Weinstein by dressing provocatively. After a barrage of criticism, she apologised, but the condemnation kept pouring in.
“I think he’s being looked at right now as a symbol, not necessarily as him. I know his wife; I think they’re wonderful people. Harvey has done some amazing things,” the founder of DKNY said about Weinstein on the red carpet of the CineFashion Film Awards in Los Angeles.
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“It’s not Harvey Weinstein. You look at everything all over the world today and how women are dressing, what they’re asking by just presenting themselves the way they do. What are they asking for? Trouble.”
The comments triggered outrage, including from actress Rose McGowan, whom The New York Times reported had reached a settlement with Weinstein in 1997 after the producer had behaved inappropriately toward her.
“Donna Karan you are a DEPLORABLE,” McGowan, 44, tweeted. “Aiding and abetting is a moral crime. You are scum in a fancy dress.”