Television star Kim Kardashian has drawn criticism for what many have deemed a “vulgar” choice of attire while wearing Princess Diana’s famed cross necklace. The backlash occurred after Kardashian donned the iconic amethyst piece at the LACMA Art + Film Gala in Los Angeles on November 2.
Originally worn by Princess Diana in 1987 during the Birthright charity gala, the necklace is a significant artifact of royal jewelry history. Kardashian purchased this extraordinary piece for nearly $200,000 at a Sotheby’s auction in January 2023, making it a point of interest among fashion enthusiasts and royal admirers alike.
A Controversial Fashion Statement
Upon seeing Kardashian’s ensemble—a low-cut dress paired with the royal necklace—many social media users took to platforms like X (formerly Twitter) to express their disapproval. Comments ranged from labeling her appearance as “shallow” to arguing that she failed to embody the elegance associated with Princess Diana. One user articulated, “If she wants to wear a necklace with a sacred religious symbol, at least match it with the class of Princess Diana to show respect.”
The amethyst gemstone, traditionally linked to British royalty, was chosen by Diana for its bold design, featuring a large pendant and an unusually long chain. According to a representative from the British jewelry brand Steven Stone, “Very few people could wear such an unusual item, except Princess Diana.” This statement highlights the unique aura that the late princess carried, which many believe Kardashian did not emulate with her styling choices.
Criticism and Mockery
The backlash did not stop at mere criticism; some individuals mocked Kardashian’s choice of accessories, suggesting that her motivation was to align herself with the legacy of royalty. One commenter mused, “Maybe she wants to be remembered with timeless legends like Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, and Princess Diana, so she decided to spend money on class.” Despite the uproar, Kim Kardashian has not publicly addressed the controversy surrounding her fashion choice.
A History of Borrowed Glamour
This incident is not the first time Kardashian has faced scrutiny for borrowing from the legacies of famous women. At the 2022 Met Gala, she controversially wore the iconic dress that Marilyn Monroe donned while singing “Happy Birthday” to President John F. Kennedy in 1962. Following the event, she was accused of damaging the historic garment, losing crystals and leaving others dangling precariously on thin threads.
Born in 1980 in the United States, Kim Kardashian rose to fame through the reality TV show Keeping Up With The Kardashians. Over the years, she has become a prominent figure in Hollywood and an American billionaire, boasting hundreds of millions of followers on social media. Additionally, she has made appearances in films such as Disaster Movie (2008), Deep in the Valley (2009), and Temptation: Confessions of a Marriage Counselor (2013). Currently, her net worth is estimated at $1.7 billion.
While Kim Kardashian’s fashion choices often provoke discussion and debate, her recent decision to wear Princess Diana’s amethyst cross necklace has ignited significant backlash. The intersection of celebrity culture and royal heritage continues to be a point of contention in public discourse, highlighting how the past intertwines with contemporary fame. Whether praised or criticized, Kardashian remains an influential figure in the fashion world, and her choices undoubtedly keep the conversation going.
