What to Know
Hilaria Baldwin has found herself at the center of controversy more than many of her fellow celebrity moms have, but when her 12-year-old daughter gets involved, too, she’s definitely not backing down. After her followers shamed Carmen for an outfit she was wearing in one of her mom’s posts, Hilaria quickly came to her defense, even using a white board and marker to prove her point.
It all started with a seemingly innocent Instagram video.
In the video, Carmen can be seen dancing and lip synching to a Lana Del Rey song as she’s flanked by two of her younger sisters. Carmen appears to be wearing a full face of makeup, along with a white tank top, khaki skirt, and a body chain.
“Another episode of #gossipgirl Baldwin, directed by Carmen,” Hilaria wrote in her caption, adding a laughing emoji.
The backlash was intense.
People did not hold back in the comments when it felt to just how inappropriate they felt that Carmen’s outfit (and the video in general) was.
“Very uncomfortable to see a 12 year old act this way… and I’m usually very open minded…” one commenter wrote.
Another insisted that Carmen must care too much about looking pretty on camera, writing, “Many 12 year olds are involved with worthwhile hobbies. This one has shown a preoccupation with her image and has expressed her desire to become an influencer. How about influencing her to develop her intellect while having fun posing for the camera?”
Hilaria posted a video defending Carmen — and her own parenting choices.
Responding to the negative comments on the post, Hilaria shared a video
“My kids are so safe wearing a tank top, skirt and tights. She’s been wearing that her whole life. So why is it making you uncomfortable?” she asked.
She also said that she’s always teaching her kids about safety (both online and off) so strangers on the internet don’t need to be this concerned about her every mood.
“LIttle Carmen that you guys have seen grow up … in six years, she’s going to be 18,” she reminded her followers, letting them know that the idea of women aging into or out of things (including fashion) is totally constructed by society and not a requirement.
It looks like Carmen’s all good. Growing into your own while being a preteen is tough enough, so why not let her have a little fun along the way while she figures it all out?
