Overview
- In a Jan. 7 interview, Bryant said she chose the custom Jazella Couture gown for its design, believed it suited the event, and maintained she was fully covered.
- Jamal Bryant reiterated from the pulpit that he bought the dress and urged attention to the UNCF ball’s roughly $4 million raised for HBCUs, dismissing modesty attacks as a distraction.
- Faith leaders and commentators questioned the optics for church leadership, with Bishop Patrick Wooden condemning the look and Sherri Shepherd saying the illusion style felt out of place for a first lady.
- Reporting from The Root detailed the garment’s construction as flesh-toned fabric beneath black mesh, describing an illusion effect without exposed skin.
- Karri Bryant thanked her husband for his public support and said the scrutiny has widened conversations about expectations placed on pastors’ spouses.