Martha Stewart Says Halloween Costume Was Meant to Raise Homelessness Awareness

A Halloween photo of Martha Stewart dressed in torn clothing, with dirt-like makeup and a sign asking for food, prompted criticism after it appeared in an Instagram carousel promoting her QVC candles. The post was removed, but images continued to circulate online, where commenters called the costume insensitive and misguided and said she was trivializing homelessness.

Stewart responded on November 1, saying the costume was intended to draw attention to homelessness, not offend people. She said she was distressed by the reaction and described homelessness as a serious, ongoing challenge in the United States.

She also said the issue mattered deeply to her and that she had spent time and effort supporting charities that address it. Stewart said she remained committed to making a difference.

The post’s caption promoted her candles as suitable for Halloween. Stewart has previously become known for elaborate holiday costumes and has shared Halloween recipes and entertaining ideas. The costume’s stated purpose did not end the criticism online, while some commenters defended it as a joke or said people were taking it too seriously.