Georgina Chapman Returns to Marchesa for the First Time Since Leaving Harvey Weinstein

Georgina Chapman, the British fashion designer and co-founder of the women’s brand Marchesa, returned to work for the first time since the avalanche of sexual assault and rape allegations against her now ex-husband Harvey Weinstein began last October. Chapman was seen leaving her New York City apartment on March 15, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter, to attend a Council of Fashion Designers of America (CDFA) board meeting. According to THR, when Chapman walked into the room, everyone started cheering.

Diane von Furstenberg, who is also chairwoman of CFDA, said “We were all happy to see her. Georgina is a great designer, engaged board member, devoted mother and good friend. We all support her.”

Chapman announced she was leaving Weinstein in October, stating “My heart breaks for all the women who have suffered tremendous pain because of these unforgivable actions.” Page Six reported that the divorce was settled in January. Chapman, for now, lives in their Manhattan brownstone, which was sold a few weeks ago, with her 7- and 4-year-old children.

The question of what will happen to Chapman and her fashion brand, which was often worn by actresses who worked closely with Weinstein, now is an open one. It’s not hard to imagine how both her standing and her company’s could have crumbled, mixed up in the backlash against Weinstein. But THR reports that things may be looking up for Marchesa, as some “lesser-known actresses” have recently shown up to events wearing the label while others have abandoned it given its proximity to Weinstein.

The article points to Chapman’s “decision not to publicly address her husband’s misconduct” as a move that has ultimately saved her from popular retaliation. As actress Celeste Thorson, who wore a Marchesa dress last month, told THR: “It’s disturbing when women are penalized for the crimes of an abuser.”