American Fashion Designer Kicked Out of China’s Forbidden City—Was His Outfit Too Extreme?

Due to their attire, a famous American fashion designer was asked to leave the Forbidden City.

According to the South China Morning Post, designer Rick Owens visited the Forbidden City in Beijing, the capital of China, on October 15 with acquaintances. While taking pictures at the entrance, the staff asked them to leave. In the released photos, they attracted attention with their white face makeup and black paint around their lips and eyes.

Owens expressed dissatisfaction with the situation on Instagram, explaining that the staff had offered entry if they removed their makeup and changed into regular clothes—an offer they refused. Owens’ group described the incident as humiliating and dehumanizing, stating they were prepared to fight for their freedom of expression, even if it came at the cost of their identity.

In response, the Forbidden City stated, “People who are not dressed appropriately are not allowed to enter.” They pointed out that Owens and his party were wearing dark and unusual outfits, which attracted a lot of attention from passersby.

Local reactions generally supported the Forbidden City’s decision. In an editorial, the Beijing Daily newspaper argued, “It’s not that their freedom of dress is being disrespected, but rather that they did not respect China’s history and culture.” They added that while avant-garde fashion itself is not an issue, “It is important to maintain public order and respect cultural etiquette.”

Chinese netizens voiced mixed reactions, with many agreeing with the Forbidden City’s stance. Some commented, “Just as they have the freedom to wear what they want, the Forbidden City has the freedom not to let them in.” Others commented, “No place would allow a Chinese person in swimwear to enter a foreign church. ” Others said, “We should respect each other.”