Former Love Island Australia contestant Lacey Butlin has become the target of significant online criticism after modelling a dress featuring a headscarf, commonly worn by Muslim women as a hijab.
Online Backlash Over Fashion Campaign
The 20-year-old from Sydney posed for Australian label Veil of Faith, showcasing their $180 Aurora Drape Formal Dress. The outfit includes a hijab and an ankle-length hem, designed to preserve modesty.
Her decision to front the campaign was swiftly criticised on social media. One user questioned her motivation, writing, 'Lacey... the bills can't be this high!' alongside a catalogue photo.
Others challenged the brand's choice of model. 'Could they not have used a model who actually wears them?' asked a second commentator. A third suggested, 'It's odd they would choose someone who has no correlation modelling for Muslim brands. It would have been better for them to get a Muslim model.'
Butlin's Connection to Culture
While Lacey Butlin is not a practising Muslim, her social media indicates she frequently visits Dubai and feels a strong affinity for its culture. This connection, however, did little to placate her critics following the fashion shoot.
Love Island Australia Season Seven Concludes
The controversy emerges as the seventh season of Love Island Australia concluded on Monday night. The winners, 21-year-old Yana and 22-year-old Kye, were crowned the public's favourite couple.
In a dramatic twist, the pair did not receive the full $50,000 prize. Earlier in the series, fellow islander Dylan made franchise history by leaving with $20,000 he 'stolen' from the prize fund. Consequently, Yana and Kye shared a reduced sum of $30,000.
Despite the shortfall, the couple, who were previously bitter exes, were visibly delighted with their win. Host Sophie Monk announced their victory, followed by a celebratory kiss amidst fireworks.
Yana, from Sydney's Northern Beaches, said, 'Sharing my Love Island journey with Kye has been incredible... Kye has been my rock in the Villa.' Kye, also from the Northern Beaches, echoed her sentiments about their rekindled romance.
Season seven has been the most-watched Love Island Australia series to date and received the highest number of finale votes in the show's history.
