Florence Pugh Points Out That People Fear Her Body's Freedom

Hollywood sensation Florence Pugh has revisited the criticism she faced last year for donning a sheer dress that showcased her nipples, boldly asserting, "it's the freedom that people are scared of."

In a recent interview with Elle magazine, published just this Wednesday, the "Oppenheimer" star delved back into the body-shaming backlash she endured after gracing the scene in a stunning Valentino gown during the brand's show in Rome in July 2022. This halter-neck tulle masterpiece, bathed in sheer pink, caused quite a stir.

Pugh provided insight into her decision to wear the dress and her unapologetic response to the ensuing controversy. She articulated, "I speak candidly about my body because I have no intention of concealing my cellulite or the softness between my arm and my breast. I'd much rather lay it all bare."

She continued, "What truly terrifies me is the instances when people take issue with me revealing 'too much' of myself. When the Valentino pink dress incident unfolded a year ago, my nipples were visible through a piece of fabric, and it genuinely irked some individuals. It's the liberty that makes people uneasy—the fact that I am comfortable and content."

Pugh passionately remarked, "For far too long, keeping women down through commentary on their bodies has been an effective strategy. We're currently witnessing a shift where numerous individuals are saying, 'I don't care.' We must consistently remind everyone that women's bodies serve more than one purpose."

Elle honored Pugh with the title of "British Icon" at their Style Awards, which served as the backdrop for this candid conversation.

This isn't the first time the 27-year-old actress has addressed the reactions that her attire from last July provoked. She previously shared her thoughts on the "aggressive" and "indecent" comments directed at her breasts and nipples in an Instagram post during that period.

In her own words, "It's been quite fascinating to observe how effortlessly men can publicly and proudly critique a woman's body, for all to see. This isn't the first instance, and it certainly won't be the last when a woman is subjected to a litany of criticisms about her body from a crowd of strangers. What's disconcerting is just how vulgar some of you men can be."

Pugh concluded with a powerful query: "Why is there such a profound fear of breasts?"