Nelly Furtado Defies Critics with Bold Fashion Choice at Manchester Pride

Canadian singer and Grammy Award winner Nelly Furtado made headlines during her performance at Manchester Pride on August 24, 2025, by wearing a striking outfit that appeared to address recent body shaming criticisms. Furtado, 46, donned an oversized white shirt featuring a drawing of a slim woman’s body, paired with a miniskirt and a large belt inscribed with the phrase “Whoa Nelly.” Her ensemble was complemented by tall boots that displayed the words “Better Than Ever,” a title from her latest album.

The singer’s fashion statement came against a backdrop of social media discussions regarding her appearance, which included both supportive and critical comments. A post by the account VintageOld Skool showcased a collage of Furtado in her bold outfit, eliciting a variety of reactions from fans. Commenter Lorraine Wylde remarked, “She’s a singer…. Not a model. If you go to the gig and she sings then that’s it,” while Natalie Chaisson expressed admiration for the outfit, noting, “Shows her sense of humor. I could only imagine how hard it must be to go back on stage when people are more judgmental as ever.”

Furtado has previously addressed her body image issues, offering candid insights through social media. In a January Instagram post, she encouraged her followers to embrace a “body neutral 2025,” highlighting the importance of self-love and acceptance. She wrote, “Celebrate your individuality… it’s perfectly OK to be OK with what you see in the mirror.”

In her post, Furtado reflected on her newfound awareness of the pressures related to her appearance, stating, “This year I became aware of the aesthetic pressure of my work in a brand new way, while simultaneously I experienced new levels of self-love and genuine confidence from within.” She clarified that aside from veneers on her teeth, she has not undergone any cosmetic procedures.

Despite the scrutiny, Furtado has acknowledged that her makeup artist sometimes uses face tape to enhance her features, and her stylist may employ body tape for specific looks. Additionally, she mentioned using body makeup for contouring effects, emphasizing that her appearance is a combination of artistry and self-expression rather than a reflection of her self-worth.

Furtado’s bold fashion choice at Manchester Pride stands as a testament not only to her artistic identity but also as a declaration against body shaming. Her message of self-acceptance resonates strongly in a society often preoccupied with unrealistic beauty standards. As she continues to perform and share her journey, Furtado remains an influential figure in advocating for body positivity and individuality.