The Oscars were all glitz and glam and while the celebrities piled on to the red carpet showing off their best assets, E!’s Fashion Police were at the ready to scrutinise every look inside and out.
When Zendaya stepped on the red carpet to showcase her new edgy dreadlocks, presenter Giuliana Rancic was quick to make a snide remark about the 18-year-old’s new do, remarking: “I feel like she smells like patchouli oil… maybe weed?”
As a less than impressed Kelly Osbourne sat beside Giuliana Rancic, looking AWKWARD, the Fashion Police studio erupted into laughter at Zendaya’s expense.
Twitter was quick to point out the fashion presenter’s comments painted an incorrect stereotype of those with dreads, let alone being racially charged.
I'm so offended by the comments made about zendaya's dreads, foul play 👎
— *palm tree emoji* (@lovetherasta) February 24, 2015
Your racist and xenophobic statement about Zendaya's hair wasn't funny. Try being interesting, for once. Make it a goal. @GiulianaRancic
— Trudy (@thetrudz) February 24, 2015
Not that it matters @GiulianaRancic , but in case you were wondering my locs smell like shea butter and college tuition.
— Professor Oak (@itzCharlieBrown) February 24, 2015
Earlier this month Fashion Police presenter had praised Kylie Jenner on her “edgy” and “urban” look when the the 17-year-old had revealed her new dreads on Instagram.
Obviously, Twitter had not forgotten.
So when Kylie Jenner had dreads they were edgy, but Zendaya's look like they smell of weed? And you're not racist? #confused @GiulianaRancic
— . (@JackieRue) February 24, 2015
Despite the hundreds that jumped to her defence nothing quite hit home like Zendaya’s own response to the disparaging comments…
— Zendaya (@Zendaya) February 24, 2015
Giuliana was quick to respond, insisting she meant no harm and apologised for offending the young actress – and the rest of the dread-wearing community no doubt.
Dear @Zendaya, I'm sorry I offended you and others. I was referring to a bohemian chic look. Had NOTHING to do with race and NEVER would!!!
— Giuliana Rancic (@GiulianaRancic) February 24, 2015
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article