Olivia Culpo and Christian McCaffrey’s wedding on June 29, 2024, was a beautiful celebration marked by love and elegance. However, the event took an unexpected turn when Olivia’s wedding dress became a topic of heated debate online. The gorgeous long-sleeve ball gown by Dolce & Gabbana sparked controversy after being harshly criticized by fashion influencer Kennedy Bingham.
The Critique of the Culpo Wedding Dress
Stylist Kennedy Bingham took to TikTok to express her strong opinions about Olivia Culpo’s wedding dress. In her nearly six-minute video, Bingham labeled the dress as lacking personality. She argued that wedding dresses should reflect the bride’s unique style through intricate details such as beading or jewelry. Bingham’s critique quickly went viral, amassing over two million views within days. She bluntly stated, “There is no personality in this dress,” and referred to it as “the absence of personality.”
Christian McCaffrey’s Defense of Olivia
Christian McCaffrey did not take kindly to Bingham’s harsh comments. He responded on Instagram, defending his wife and her choice of dress. McCaffrey expressed his disdain for the negativity, stating, “What an evil thing to post online. I hope you can find joy and peace in the world, the way my beautiful wife does.” His heartfelt message highlighted the love and respect he has for Olivia and her decisions.
Olivia Culpo’s Response to the Backlash
Olivia Culpo also addressed the criticism with grace and strength. She replied directly to Bingham, emphasizing the personal significance of her wedding dress. Olivia expressed her hurt and disappointment over the negative comments, stating, “Wow, what an absolutely evil person you are. I hope no one ever tears you apart in this way because it’s extremely hurtful. I love this dress, and it was everything I wanted and more.”
Olivia explained that she intentionally chose a dress that did not “exude sex” but rather embodied the seriousness and sanctity of marriage. She wanted her gown to reflect the solemnity of the covenant she was entering with Christian. This sentiment was central to her vision, and she was unwavering in her decision to prioritize simplicity and elegance.
A Picture-Perfect Rhode Island Wedding
The wedding ceremony, held in Rhode Island, was a private and intimate affair. Guests were encouraged to experience the moment without the distraction of phones, allowing everyone to be fully present. Olivia’s younger sister, Sophia Culpo, documented the preparations leading up to the ceremony, capturing heartfelt moments and the natural beauty of the bride.
Sophia’s exclusive video for PEOPLE showcased the family’s excitement and Olivia’s simple yet stunning bridal look. Olivia chose a low, slicked-back bun and natural makeup, even opting to skip mascara, lip liner, and brow makeup to maintain a classic appearance. Her desire for simplicity extended to every aspect of her wedding day, ensuring that each component harmonized perfectly.
Behind the Scenes of a Glamorous Day
As Sophia’s video continued, it provided a glimpse into the joyful chaos of wedding preparations. From Olivia kicking out guests to use the bathroom to Sophia styling her boyfriend’s hair, the footage captured the authenticity and warmth of the day. Sophia and Aurora Culpo, both bridesmaids, wore custom Dolce & Gabbana gowns for the ceremony and later changed into contrasting dresses for the reception.
Olivia’s second dress for the reception was another Dolce & Gabbana masterpiece, featuring chiffon and bishop sleeves that complemented the Italian-style party theme. Throughout the day, Olivia’s commitment to elegance and simplicity shone through, making her wedding a memorable and beautiful event.
Olivia Culpo’s Vision for Her Wedding Dress
Olivia Culpo’s approach to her wedding dress was deeply personal and intentional. She worked closely with Dolce & Gabbana for months to bring her vision to life. Olivia stressed the importance of a dress that felt as serious and significant as the commitment she was making. The final design, a long-sleeve crepe gown with a voluminous skirt and button-lined back, perfectly embodied her ideals.
Olivia was adamant about her dress not overpowering her but rather complementing her natural beauty. She believed that true beauty lay in simplicity and timeless elegance. The dress’s design process was straightforward, with Olivia having no notes on the initial sketch presented by the Dolce & Gabbana atelier. The result was a gown that was exactly as she had envisioned from the start.
Conclusion
Olivia Culpo’s wedding dress, though a subject of controversy, ultimately reflected her deep commitment to the principles of simplicity, elegance, and the sanctity of marriage. Despite facing harsh criticism, Olivia and Christian McCaffrey stood by their choices, highlighting the importance of personal expression and authenticity on their special day. The elegance of Olivia’s dress and the love shared between the couple made their wedding an unforgettable celebration of unity and commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Olivia Culpo choose a simple wedding dress?
Olivia wanted her dress to reflect the seriousness of the marriage covenant and to emphasize simplicity and elegance. She aimed for a gown that complemented her natural beauty without being overly extravagant.
How did Christian McCaffrey respond to the criticism of Olivia’s dress?
Christian defended Olivia on Instagram, condemning the negative comments and expressing his admiration for his wife’s choice. He emphasized the importance of finding joy and peace rather than spreading negativity.
What was Kennedy Bingham’s main critique of the dress?
Bingham criticized the dress for lacking personality, arguing that wedding dresses should include personal touches such as beading or jewelry. She described Olivia’s gown as the “absence of personality.”
How did Olivia Culpo handle the backlash?
Olivia responded directly to the critic, expressing her hurt and disappointment. She explained the personal significance of her dress and reiterated her love for its simplicity and elegance.
What was unique about Olivia Culpo’s wedding ceremony?
The ceremony was phone-free, allowing guests to fully experience the moment. Olivia’s commitment to simplicity was evident in every aspect, from her natural makeup to the classic design of her wedding dress.