Olivia Rodrigo’s babydoll dress is for the punks, not the freaks who ‘normalize pedophilia’

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People are playfully calling the recent debate around Olivia Rodrigo’s clothing choices “babydoll-dress-gate,” but Olivia Rodrigo herself just describes it as “weird.”

The controversy began in early May with the release of Olivia Rodrigo’s “Drop Dead” music video, which featured her wearing a pink and blue ruffled dress while singing about having a strong crush. Shortly after, on May 8th, she performed live in Barcelona wearing a pink and white floral dress with knee-high Dr. Martens boots.

Rodrigo’s recent outfit drew inspiration from rebellious feminist and punk styles of the past. However, online critics accused the singer of inappropriately sexualizing images associated with childhood. In a lengthy interview with the New York Times Popcast released on Thursday, Rodrigo strongly defended her choice and described the criticism as upsetting.

She explained that she’s worn revealing outfits onstage, like a sparkly bra and shorts, and felt comfortable and empowered doing so. However, she found it strange that when she wore a fully covered-up dress, some people considered that inappropriate, and believes this highlights a disturbing trend of normalizing the sexualization of children in society.

Rodrigo also criticized the idea that girls are taught to avoid attracting unwanted sexual attention by changing how they dress. She found it strange that girls are often told it’s their responsibility to prevent men from sexualizing their bodies.

Rodrigo explained she wasn’t aiming for a “sexy” look with her dress, but rather a cool, edgy style inspired by musicians like Kathleen Hannah and Courtney Love, who she admires. Courtney Love then seemed to support Rodrigo online, sharing posts on Instagram that defended the singer.

As a lifelong movie fan, I find it really troubling when fashion or presentation starts catering to the fear of unwanted attention. It feels like we’re losing sight of what truly matters. I especially worry about young women and girls being made to feel like they need to police their own appearance to avoid someone else’s inappropriate thoughts. Honestly, we shouldn’t ever be held accountable for how someone else chooses to sexualize us – that’s on them, not us. It shouldn’t be our job to manage other people’s behavior.

I’m really excited for Rodrigo’s new album, “You Seem Pretty Sad for a Girl So in Love,” to drop on June 12th! I’ve already been listening to “Drop Dead” and “The Cure” on repeat – they’re fantastic, and I can’t wait to hear the rest of the songs.

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2026-05-30 00:31