Martha Stewart has indicated that "Today" show co-host Craig Melvin is partly responsible for the controversy surrounding her homeless Halloween costume. Stewart claimed Melvin "spilled chocolate all over the sweater" she had planned to wear for her segment on the show.
Stewart appeared on "Today" wearing an American flag sweater and an Olympic cap to prepare treats. She stated that after the segment, the sweater was too soiled to wear to a Halloween party she was attending.
With only 10 minutes to prepare for the party, Stewart opted for what she described as the "easiest costume" – a "bum." She recounted looking in the mirror and feeling she appeared "hungry and homeless," which led her to create a sign that read, "I'm hungry."
The costume, which involved a flannel shirt, cardigan, ripped jeans, and a beanie, along with dirt on her face and the sign, was posted on Instagram. The image has since been deleted, but it drew criticism on social media.
Stewart's initial explanation for the costume was to "bring more awareness" to the homelessness crisis. Representatives for Stewart and Melvin did not immediately respond to requests for comment.