- Kim Kardashian surprised audiences at Balenciaga’s Fall 2025 couture show, wearing Elizabeth Taylor’s historic diamond earrings.
- Her vintage-inspired look paid tribute to Old Hollywood glamour but drew criticism for her awkward runway walk.
- The show marked designer Demna’s final collection for Balenciaga before moving to Gucci.
Kim Kardashian stole the spotlight at Paris Fashion Week with a surprise runway appearance during Balenciaga’s Fall 2025 couture show. Draped in a satin slip dress and a cream faux fur coat, her look paid homage to screen legend Elizabeth Taylor.
Despite the high-wattage glamour, Kardashian’s walk became the focal point of online chatter. Social media users were quick to critique her stiff posture and uncertain stride, with many calling her catwalk performance underwhelming and misaligned with the couture atmosphere.
Kim Kardashian Honors Elizabeth Taylor at Balenciaga—But Her Catwalk Stirs Debate
This marked Kardashian’s return to the Balenciaga runway after her previous appearance in 2022, solidifying her role as one of Demna’s muses. Known for blending pop culture and high fashion, Demna’s decision to include Kim in his final show highlighted the designer’s flair for showmanship and controversy. Her look, while undeniably glamorous, became a symbol of how fashion storytelling often walks a fine line between spectacle and sincerity.
Elizabeth Taylor’s influence on Kardashian’s style has been evident for years. Kim has previously purchased Taylor’s jewelry at auction and often cites the screen legend as a personal icon. By donning Taylor’s earrings and emulating her 1950s aesthetic, Kardashian sought to channel the timeless confidence and allure of classic Hollywood, adding emotional weight to an otherwise polarizing runway moment.
Jeweler Lorraine Schwartz played a crucial role in tying the tribute together, having worked with both Taylor and the Kardashian family. The earrings, valued near $400,000, were selected from Schwartz’s private collection to elevate the historical and emotional resonance of the outfit. The collaboration between Balenciaga, Kardashian, and Schwartz was emblematic of the show’s central theme—legacy, both personal and creative.
While the internet remains divided over Kardashian’s catwalk skills, there’s no denying her ability to command global attention. In an industry where digital virality often overshadows technical performance, her appearance served its purpose: it got people talking. Whether seen as a misstep or a marketing masterstroke, the moment ensured that Demna’s final Balenciaga show would not be forgotten.
Kim Kardashian’s turn on the Balenciaga runway fused fashion history with celebrity spectacle—provoking critique, but undeniably capturing the cultural moment.
“Big girls need big diamonds.” – Elizabeth Taylor
A fitting reminder that boldness—whether in jewelry or in presence—always makes an impact, even if imperfect.
