Flare magazine has apologized for an article that promised to âdecode Jian Ghomeshiâs courthouse style.â
The story set off a wave of anger on Twitter, with critics saying it was a superficial fashion piece about someone accused of serious crimes.
analyzed Ghomeshiâs appearance Wednesday in a Toronto courtroom, where he was charged with four counts of sexual assault and one count of overcome resistance -- choking.
âHis sombre exit appearance before the throng of cameras and reporters -- black suit, crisp white shirt and subtly patterned dark tie -- was in stark contrast to his signature behind-the-scenes rock-guy style,â the article notes.
The article also addressed hair and beard grooming.
It then quotes reaction from an image consultant and a criminal lawyer. The lawyer -- not connected to Ghomeshiâs defence team -- said he always advised clients not to wear black, because itâs âassociated with the bad guy.â
On Friday, Flare tweeted an apology âif we offended readers.â It said the article was not about fashion, but rather about âhow appearance affects impression.â
We apologize if we offended readers with the Jian Ghomeshi story. The article was not about fashion, but how appearance affects impression.
â FLARE Magazine (@FLAREfashion)
Two-and-a-half hours later, Flare followed up with a full, unreserved apology in a series of five more tweets.
1/4 We made a mistake today with our story on Jian Ghomeshi.
â FLARE Magazine (@FLAREfashion)
2/4 It was presented in a way that seemed to minimize the seriousness of the allegations and the impact he has had on his alleged victims.
â FLARE Magazine (@FLAREfashion)
3/5 We havenât taken down the story because we think it sheds light on a legitimate topic
â FLARE Magazine (@FLAREfashion)
4/5 How defendants use their appearance as part of their legal and PR strategy.
â FLARE Magazine (@FLAREfashion)
5/5 People were right to be offended by the tone of our headline. We have changed it, and we apologize.
â FLARE Magazine (@FLAREfashion)