Kim Kardashian has once again made headlines in the fashion world by showcasing a significant piece of jewelry with a rich history. At the recent LACMA Art+Film Gala held in Los Angeles, Kardashian wore a diamond-lined cross pendant that once belonged to none other than Princess Diana. This event marked the first public appearance of the necklace since the tragic passing of the beloved royal in 1997.

The cross pendant, which features approximately 5.25 carats of diamonds, is a stunning example of early 20th-century craftsmanship by Garrard, the renowned British court jewelers. Measuring 5.4 inches by 3.7 inches, the piece was originally purchased in the 1980s by Naim Attallah, a Palestinian-British businessman. Attallah was known for lending the necklace to Princess Diana on several occasions, including a notable charity gala in 1987 where she paired it with a matching maroon velvet gown designed by Catherine Walker.

Kardashian acquired the iconic necklace in January 2023 for a staggering £163,800 (approximately $212,000) during a Sotheby’s auction. Her choice to wear this significant artifact has sparked a mix of admiration and criticism across social media platforms. While some fashion enthusiasts applaud her for bringing such a historic piece back into the public eye, others express concern over the appropriateness of wearing a religious symbol in a revealing outfit.

For the gala, Kardashian styled the necklace in her own unique way, opting to shorten the pearl chain significantly. This decision allowed her to pair the cross with a stack of other jewelry, including a six-strand pearl choker, creating a bold statement that contrasted with her all-white ensemble. The cross pendant added a vibrant pop of color, showcasing Kardashian’s flair for combining modern fashion with historical elements.

However, the deep plunge of her gown’s neckline, coupled with the necklace’s religious significance, has led to a divided opinion online. Critics argue that the risqué nature of the outfit feels at odds with the sacredness of the cross, while some commenters express frustration over Kardashian’s ability to access and wear such historical relics. A notable Instagram comment questioned the decision to allow Kardashian to wear Diana’s necklace, referencing past controversies involving the star and other iconic pieces.

This latest fashion moment is not an isolated incident for Kardashian, who has a history of wearing pieces from famous figures in pop culture and history. Her personal collection includes items from icons such as Marilyn Monroe, Janet Jackson, and Jackie Kennedy, showcasing her ongoing fascination with fashion history.

As Kardashian continues to make bold fashion choices, the intersection of celebrity culture and historical fashion remains a hot topic of discussion. The LACMA Art+Film Gala was not only a showcase of contemporary art and film but also a stage for Kardashian to highlight her unique style and connection to fashion history through the lens of one of the most beloved royals of our time.

In the world of high fashion, the combination of celebrity and historical significance often leads to intense scrutiny, and Kardashian’s latest appearance is no exception. As she navigates the complexities of wearing such iconic pieces, the conversation around fashion, legacy, and cultural sensitivity continues to evolve.