On April 24, 2026, Jennie of BLACKPINK walked the TIME100 Gala red carpet in Recent York, a moment meant to cement her status as a global influencer after being named to TIME’s annual list of the world’s most influential people. Instead, her appear sparked a wave of online criticism, with social media users accusing her styling team of aging her appearance and failing to complement her features amid a lineup of Hollywood heavyweights.
The black corseted gown, sheer at the bust and waist, was intended to highlight her famously slim waist and broad shoulders, a signature trait often celebrated in K-pop fashion circles. But, the combination of oversized diamond earrings, nude makeup, and a high, tightly coiled hairstyle drew sharp contrast on platforms like X, where users questioned whether the choices added a decade to her look and washed out her facial definition.
Standing beside Hailey Bieber — wife of Justin Bieber and a noted fashion figure — and Dakota Johnson, whose understated gray gown featured intricate lace detailing and a flowing cape, Jennie appeared visually subdued. Observers noted the height difference and contrasting aesthetics: Bieber’s modern, sensual slip dress and Johnson’s classic Hollywood elegance framed Jennie in a way that diminished her presence, according to widespread commentary.
Yet other outlets framed the same moment differently, emphasizing Jennie’s continued alignment with luxury branding and her role as a K-pop trailblazer in a predominantly Western space. Her minimalist nude makeup and classic high bun were described as intentional nods to her “Chanel muse” identity, reinforcing a polished, high-fashion aesthetic rather than a misstep.
The TIME100 Gala, livestreamed globally for the first time in 2026, brought together artists, executives, and cultural figures shaping contemporary discourse. Jennie’s inclusion as the sole K-pop representative on the list underscored her crossover impact beyond music, positioning her among figures like Sundar Pichai, Ralph Lauren, and Alysa Liu.
While the event celebrates influence, the red carpet remains a site of intense scrutiny where fashion choices are parsed for signals of confidence, relevance, and alignment with personal brand. For Jennie, the night highlighted the tightrope global stars walk — being recognized for worldwide impact while facing relentless judgment on presentation, especially when positioned beside established Western style icons.
Why did Jennie’s outfit receive such strong criticism online?
Critics argued that the black gown, large earrings, nude makeup, and high hairstyle combined to make her appear older and less defined, particularly when contrasted with the styling of Hailey Bieber and Dakota Johnson, whose looks were praised for modernity and classic elegance.
How did other media outlets interpret Jennie’s appearance at the event?
Some outlets highlighted her intentional styling choices — such as the nude makeup and classic bun — as reinforcing her “Chanel muse” image and aligning with a refined, high-fashion aesthetic rather than representing a failure.
What does Jennie’s presence at the TIME100 Gala signify for K-pop’s global reach?
As the sole K-pop artist on the 2026 TIME100 list, her attendance underscored her individual influence beyond music, marking a milestone in the genre’s acceptance within Western-centric cultural institutions.
