At her most recent appearance, Kim Kardashian appeared with a special pendant that Princess Diana once wore. Instead of compliments there is criticism.
At the “LACMA Art + Film” gala in Los Angeles, everyone of note strolled down the red carpet. Reality TV star Kim Kardashian was also on the guest list and posed for photographers in a custom Gucci dress. She combined the robe with a deep neckline with a historical piece of jewelry, the so-called “Attallah” cross – and thus provoked mixed reactions.
The pendant, which is made of amethysts and diamonds, was worn by Princess Diana in the past. Kim Kardashian herself published photos in her Instagram story in which she is wearing the necklace – and next to it a picture in which the mother of Prince William and Prince Harry, who died in 1997, poses with the pendant. While Kardashian paired the piece of jewelry with a revealing look, Diana wore it with an elegant high-neck purple gown.
However, the fact that Princess Diana’s former jewelry now adorns Kim Kardashian’s neck was met with a lot of criticism. “Zero class, zero respect, zero taste,” reads a comment on an Instagram post. “She continues to prove that all the money in the world can’t buy taste or style,” another person wrote. “I’m tired of seeing Kim K. ruining stylish pieces of fashion history,” one can also read. “She can’t even begin to match Princess Diana’s style and class,” says one.
The pendant originally belonged to the former boss of jeweler Asprey & Garrard, Naim Attallah. He was a friend of Princess Diana. However, it has been owned by Kim Kardashian since 2023. The entrepreneur purchased it for $200,000 as part of the annual “Royal and Noble” auction at Sotheby’s auction house.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Fashion Expert Dr. Sarah Whitmore
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Whitmore! Today, we’re diving into the fascinating intersection of fashion, celebrity, and societal expectations, particularly regarding Kim Kardashian’s recent appearance at the LACMA Art + Film gala. She wore a stunning custom Gucci dress, but the real buzz was around the pendant she sported, which once belonged to Princess Diana. What are your initial thoughts on this choice?
Dr. Sarah Whitmore: Thank you for having me! Kim’s choice to wear Princess Diana’s pendant is certainly significant. It’s a bold move that immediately evokes a historical and emotional resonance. However, it also opens up a space for critique, especially given the ongoing conversation about cultural appropriation and the commodification of fashion items with deep historical relevance.
Time.news Editor: Absolutely. I saw a mix of reactions online—some celebrating the homage to Diana, while others criticized Kardashian for potentially trivializing such an iconic figure. How do you think celebrity fashion choices like this impact public perception?
Dr. Sarah Whitmore: Celebrities wield tremendous influence. When someone like Kim Kardashian steps into the spotlight wearing a piece with such rich history, it can reshape the dialogue around that history. However, it can also lead to misunderstanding or a misrepresentation of the figure associated with the piece. In Princess Diana’s case, she was a symbol of compassion and service. If people feel Kardashian’s use of the pendant detracts from that legacy or commercializes it, it can result in backlash.
Time.news Editor: That’s a compelling point. Given that Kardashian is known for her reality TV persona, do you think her brand aligns with the legacy of someone like Princess Diana?
Dr. Sarah Whitmore: It’s a complex alignment, to say the least. While Diana was revered for her humanitarian work and authenticity, Kardashian often embodies the glamor and aspiration of pop culture. It’s a juxtaposition—Diana’s legacy is steeped in social issues, while Kardashian’s brand often revolves around luxury and influence. This can lead to a disconnect in how the audience interprets Kardashian’s homage.
Time.news Editor: So, you’re suggesting that while the fashion choice itself is significant, the context of who is wearing it matters just as much, if not more?
Dr. Sarah Whitmore: Precisely. It’s crucial to consider the person behind the piece. Fashion is not just about aesthetics; it’s laden with symbolism, history, and personal narrative. When an icon like Diana is involved, her legacy can overshadow the wearer, creating an expectation for that individual to honor that history appropriately.
Time.news Editor: What do you think the fashion industry can learn from this instance? Are there ways for celebrities to navigate historical fashion items more thoughtfully?
Dr. Sarah Whitmore: The industry needs to foster a deeper understanding of fashion history. Celebrities should be encouraged to connect with the stories behind the garments they wear. Collaborating with historians or organizations dedicated to cultural heritage could empower celebrities to make informed choices that respect the narratives of the pieces they borrow.
Time.news Editor: That’s a great takeaway! As we wrap up, what would you suggest for fans and followers of fashion when they encounter these complex dynamics?
Dr. Sarah Whitmore: I encourage them to engage critically. Fashion is an art form, and like any art, it demands context. Understanding the history and significance behind fashion choices enriches our appreciation and helps us navigate our responses—whether that means celebrating a homage or questioning its relevance.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Whitmore! Your insights are invaluable as we continue to explore the nuances of celebrity culture and its impact on fashion. We look forward to further discussions in the future.
Dr. Sarah Whitmore: Thank you for having me! I always enjoy diving into these important conversations.