You've probably heard about the incident during Milan Fashion Week where Gigi Hadid was accosted by a stranger and defended herself. Now, Hadid is speaking out: She wrote an essay for Lenny Letter eloquently addressing the subject and highlighting the importance of self-defense.
"If anything, I want girls to see the video and know that they have the right to fight back, too, if put in a similar situation," Hadid wrote. "Practicing self-defense is important so that when you're in the moment, reacting from muscle memory comes more naturally to you than freezing up."
Hadid went on to say that she didn't think the move to fight back was heroic—it was simply her gut instinct. "I know people are put in much worse situations every day and don't have the cameras around that provoke social-media support," Hadid wrote. "I just want to use what happened to me to show that it's everyone's right, and it can be empowering, to be able to defend yourself." Amen to that.
What are your thoughts on Gigi Hadid's essay? Tell us in the comments below. And to focus on Hadid's positive experiences during the week, check out one of our favorite outfits of hers from Milan Fashion Week.
Opening Image: Splash News
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No Leggings Here—Gigi Hadid Just Wore the It-Girl Airport Uniform of Fall 2025Commit this look to memory.
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I've Never Met Someone Who Didn't Like This Dress Style—It's Both Trendy and TimelessShop versions inspired by Gigi Hadid.
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See You in the Fall, Skinny Jeans—This Trend Is So Much Better With Flats for SummerCasual, chic, and comfortable all in one.
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It's Here: The It-Girl Skirt Trend to Wear With Flats This SummerAs seen on Gigi and Sofia.
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If You Wear Jeans and a White T-Shirt This Summer, Swap This Dated Sneaker Color Trend for This OneGigi Hadid just did.
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Gigi Hadid Wore This Dress Trend With Rubber Flip-Flops in NYC, and Now, Everyone Else Will TooHavaianas never looked so good.
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Trendy Flats This, Trendy Flats That—These New Ballet Loafers Will Sell Out FirstGigi Hadid approves.
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Interesting: Everyone at Gigi Hadid's B-Day Party in NYC Wore the Shoes You Thought Were DeadDon't blame the messenger.
