Kim Kardashian’s recent choice to wear one of Princess Diana’s iconic necklaces has sparked a storm of online criticism.
The “Kardashians” star made an appearance at the LACMA Art+Film Gala on Saturday, Nov. 2, donning the late royal’s renowned vintage Garrard cross pendant. Her princess moment, however, didn’t resonate with all. The necklace, a stunning piece Diana once paired with an elegant gown, was reimagined by Kim.
Kim Kardashian attends the 2024 LACMA Art+Film Gala on November 02, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
She paired the pendant with a low-cut white gown, transforming it into a bold accessory. Completing her look with a layered pearl choker and short necklaces, Kim gave the heirloom a distinctly modern twist.
Kim Kardashian attends the 2024 LACMA Art+Film Gala on November 02, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
To complete her ensemble, Kim added an ivory coat to the outfit, giving her look an effortless touch of elegance. She styled her dark hair in a sleek bob parted to the left. Her makeup featured winged eyeliner, brown eyeshadow, and a nude lip, perfectly rounding out her chic, contemporary style for the event.
Kim Kardashian attends the 2024 LACMA Art+Film Gala on November 02, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Yet, her reinterpretation of the iconic cross jewelry piece didn’t sit well with many online. Netizens swiftly condemned the move, with some calling it “a disgrace” and “an insult to Princess Diana.” One user wrote, “That women [sic] is not worthy enough to wear Princess Diana ANYTHING!”
A fan comment dated November 3, 2024 | Source: Instagram/people
Comments continued to roll in. “Diana was the classiest lady in the world. Kim, unfortunately, no words for you. So disrespectful,” read one post.
Others argued that Kim’s take diminished the original significance of the necklace. One user implored, “Can we please 𝘚𝘛𝘖𝘗 giving Kim Kardashian access to iconic pieces of fashion and jewelry worn by icons.”
Kim Kardashian attends the 2024 LACMA Art+Film Gala on November 02, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Many commenters felt the styling clashed with Diana’s legacy, with several noting the late royal’s refined taste and class. One fan observed that “Diana would never dress like that,” while others expressed shock, calling the fashion move “insane.”
Kim Kardashian attends the 2024 LACMA Art+Film Gala on November 02, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Reactions poured in, with some fans split over Kim’s daring ensemble and the choice of accessory. “Wearing a cross dressed like that 😵💫,” one person remarked. Another chimed in with, “Why the cross? That’s sacrilege!” Even Princess Diana was brought into the conversation, as one dramatic comment stated, “Diana is rolling in her grave.”
But not everyone was critical. Many fans were all-in for her bold look, with one fan gushing, “LOVE her look! 🔥🔥” and another declaring, “She looks great.” The hairstyle also stole the show, drawing admiring comments.
“She looks amazing ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥and love the hair,” gushed one admirer, while another praised the cut, saying, “Love the short hair. It’s very flattering in [sic] her.”
Fan comment dated November 3, 2024 | Source: Instagram/fashionbombdaily
Kim Kardashian’s attempt to pay tribute to Princess Diana may not have landed as she’d hoped. Public reaction to her styling of the late princess’s iconic necklace has many fans longing for the understated elegance Diana once brought to the piece.
Princess Diana arriving at a charity gala organised by the jeweller Garrard in London, England on October, 27, 1987. | Source: Getty Images
The necklace, a striking amethyst and diamond cross from the early 20th century, first made headlines in 1987 when Diana wore it to a charity event. She paired it with a sophisticated baroque-style velvet dress by Catherine Walker & Co., creating a look that reflected her growing independence and evolving sense of style.
Princess Diana arriving at a charity gala organised by the jeweller Garrard in London, England on October, 27, 1987. | Source: Getty Images
This event, held by jeweler Garrard in support of the human rights charity Birthright, marked a time when Diana was beginning to make bold choices both in her personal life and her fashion.
Princess Diana arriving at a charity gala organised by the jeweller Garrard in London, England on October, 27, 1987. | Source: Getty Images
Diana’s bond with Garrard was deeply personal. It is the same jewelry brand from which she chose her sapphire and diamond engagement ring in 1981. Over the years, she returned to Garrard frequently, often borrowing this very amethyst cross for special occasions, each time bringing her own touch of grace to the piece.
Princess Diana arriving at a charity gala organised by the jeweller Garrard in London, England on October, 27, 1987. | Source: Getty Images
Once part of the late Naim Attallah’s collection, the necklace holds an estimated value of £80,000 to £120,000 ($97,000 to $145,000). Yet for many fans, its worth goes beyond the price tag — it’s a symbol of Diana’s, poise, and elegance.
