The term “wardrobe malfunction” was popularized after Janet Jackson’s breast was accidentally exposed during the Super Bowl XXXVIII halftime show in 2004. Costume malfunctions can happen to anyone, but are more common in the entertainment industry due to quick costume changes and provocative designs. Performers now take proactive measures to prevent such incidents.
During an infamous halftime show at Super Bowl XXXVIII in 2004, singer Janet Jackson’s chest was inadvertently exposed on live television as a result of a wardrobe malfunction. Fellow performer Justin Timberlake was supposed to rip off a patched-up part of Jackson’s top to reveal her frilly lingerie underneath, but instead he stripped off her entire costume. Although Jackson’s breast was partially concealed by a metallic piece of body jewelry, the ensuing controversy over the unintentional exposure put the term “wardrobe malfunction” on the cultural burner.
A costume malfunction is simply a failure of a costume to function as intended. This could be anything from a stuck zipper to a complete disintegration at the seams. The malfunction doesn’t necessarily mean indecent exposure is imminent, but many of the most infamous malfunctions involve models, actors, or other performers accidentally exposing more than they originally intended to their audiences. A singer’s tight dress may rip at the seams during a dance routine, for example, or a model may experience a problem after a quick wardrobe change.
Although anyone could experience a wardrobe malfunction at any time, it is often more common in the entertainment industry. Stage costumes are often designed to be torn from the performer’s body for quick costume changes. Some performers like Britney Spears may also want to remove a costume on stage to reveal a more provocative one. Since these suits can be held together with just a few Velcro straps or some weak stitching, the potential for a tell-tale problem is naturally much higher. In the case of Janet Jackson’s performance, some critics have speculated that she may have designed her own wardrobe to malfunction for her as a publicity stunt.
Following the Jackson Super Bowl controversy, many artists have taken proactive steps to protect themselves against similar incidents. While costumes are still regularly worn during concerts and live television sketch shows, performers may also wear flesh-colored tights or patches to protect against accidental exposure. Costume designers can also use secondary methods like snaps or tape to reduce the chances of their public clients suffering an embarrassing costume malfunction on camera.
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