Tems Shares Meaning Behind Her Viral, Conversation-Sparking Oscars Dress

Tems’ extravagant Oscars costume was a celebration of her work and roots, so don’t count on her to apologize for it.

The Nigerian singer-songwriter, a first-time Oscar nominee, set off a wave of on-line chatter along with her search for Sunday’s awards ceremony. She wore an ethereal white Lever Couture robe with a big, cloud-like construction round her head.

The larger-than-life ensemble actually stood out within the viewers. But, as photos circulated on-line, viewers had been divided: Was it impolite to dam different attendees’ views? Was it merely lighthearted fodder for memes? Or is she entitled to put on regardless of the hell she likes ― and be celebrated for it as a Black lady taking on area in a traditionally white establishment?

Tems, it appears, was vibing with the third choice when she selected the type.

“Two years ago, I would’ve said no to this dress,” she advised Harpers Bazaar in an interview days earlier than the Oscars that was revealed Monday. “But it’s my first Oscars — I am going to go all out. I really wanted to make the most of the day. The dress is also my way of celebrating my work and the people around me, celebrating my country, and celebrating the people that are rooting for me. This dress says, ‘Yes, yes, I am here!’”

Tems turned the first-ever Nigerian Oscar nominee when she acquired her nod for co-writing “Lift Me Up,” Rihanna’s “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” monitor.

On Monday, she appeared to handle the costume drama with a 1-word tweet alongside gorgeous photos of her look: “Oops.”