Kimberley Garner has once again captured the spotlight, but this time not just for her beach-ready look. The 29-year-old former Made in Chelsea star has been seen brushing off growing criticism surrounding influencers’ “work trips” during the lockdown, as she revels in the Miami sunshine with a mystery man.
On Wednesday, Garner was spotted on a Miami beach, flaunting a skimpy pink bikini that showcased her svelte figure. The revealing two-piece was complemented by a chocolate brown cover-up, open-toe heels, and stylish accessories, including oversized sunglasses and a Christian Dior Hat Basket Bag. As she cozied up to her companion, Garner seemed unperturbed by the controversy surrounding her trip.
The backlash against influencers like Garner has intensified recently, with Home Secretary Priti Patel criticizing those who have traveled abroad under the pretense of “work trips” amid strict COVID-19 travel restrictions. Influencers and reality TV stars have faced accusations of exploiting loopholes to jet off to sunnier destinations while the general public was urged to stay home.
Garner’s Miami vacation has come under scrutiny, following a trend where influencers have been called out for flaunting their travel on social media during the pandemic. The criticism is largely directed at those who have used “work” as a guise to enjoy leisure travel, prompting a wave of backlash from the public and government officials alike.
Priti Patel’s recent comments highlight the discontent with influencers showcasing their travels while lockdown restrictions remain in place. Patel has emphasized that holidays are not exempt from travel bans, and the public’s frustration is evident in their responses to these posts. The term “Covid Casablanca” has been coined to describe the situation in Dubai, where many influencers were seen partying and posting about their glamorous trips while the rest of the world grappled with the pandemic.
In response to the growing outrage, influencers have faced public criticism for their perceived insensitivity and disregard for lockdown rules. Figures like Laura Anderson, Molly-Mae Hague, and Anton Danyluk have been called out for their posts from Dubai, leading to significant drops in their follower counts. The public reaction has been one of disapproval, with accusations of these celebrities putting the NHS under strain and recklessly spreading the virus.
Despite the backlash, Kimberley Garner has managed to maintain a positive public image. In a recent Instagram post, Garner defended her decision to enjoy Miami’s sunny weather while emphasizing her commitment to safety and social distancing. “I am here, but I am very very strict still,” she wrote. “I see people in Tulum and all over going to parties and it doesn’t feel right to me.”
Garner’s message reflected her efforts to stay responsible while enjoying her time abroad. She noted that she had turned down invitations to parties and focused on outdoor activities, valuing the opportunity to be in the sun while maintaining a cautious approach to social interactions. Her comments demonstrated a sensitivity to the plight of those in lockdown, showing empathy for the difficulties faced by people at home.
Garner’s career, both as a reality TV star and a model, has seen its share of ups and downs. Known for her time on Made in Chelsea, Garner has transitioned into modeling, gaining recognition for her fashion sense and striking appearances. Her decision to enjoy a high-profile vacation amid a global pandemic has been a point of contention, but her responses suggest a careful consideration of her public image.
In addition to her current Miami escapade, Garner has previously been linked to various high-profile relationships and has split her time between London and Miami, where she purchased a dream home in 2018. Despite the controversy, she continues to enjoy a successful career, balancing her public persona with her personal life.
Kimberley Garner’s latest beach outing highlights a complex narrative of influencer culture during a pandemic. As she navigates the challenges of public scrutiny and maintains her own brand of glamour, her approach to handling criticism and managing her career remains a focal point of interest. The ongoing debate over the ethics of “work trips” underscores broader issues of social responsibility and the impact of celebrity behavior during global crises.