The Kardashian family has long been synonymous with lavish lifestyles and opulent celebrations, and their annual Christmas Eve party has become a hallmark of these extravagant displays. However, 2023 marked a notable departure from this tradition, with Kim Kardashian, the Skims founder, declaring a shift to a “really low-key” style for the holidays. This article delves into the implications of her fashion choices and the family dynamics at play during this festive season.
Embracing Minimalism Amidst Extravagance
During an interview with Vogue, Kim hinted at a simpler celebration due to logistical challenges posed by substantial construction work. While the word “low-key” suggests a retreat from the expected grandeur, Kim’s ensemble for the event told a different story. She donned a form-fitting, snake-printed turtleneck dress by Norma Kamali, demonstrating that casual for Kardashian still means high fashion. Priced at $350, with a discount bringing it down to $210, the dress highlights the blend of accessibility and luxury that defines Kardashian’s brand. Pairing the dress with sleek snakeskin boots and a slicked-back ponytail, Kim personified the idea that even casual attire could make a bold statement.
This juxtaposition challenges the traditional notions of minimalism by blending high couture elements into a “low-key” affair. Her red manicure and sultry smokey eye further emphasized that the media mogul cannot entirely detach from the glamour that her family is known for. This contrast sets a tone for an evolving identity within the Kardashian brand, showcasing how even in a supposed downsizing, the family’s fashion influence remains potent.
Kim’s eldest daughter, North West, epitomized the new generation of fashionable kids. At just 11 years old, she strutted in a white corset paired with a black tie and bubble-hem skirt, clearly taking cues from the fashion-forward aesthetic that her mother popularized. North’s knee-high boots and cropped jacket made her look not only stylish but also age-appropriate, embodying a fresh yet chic vibe. This generational shift within the Kardashian clan reinforces the notion that fashion is an inherited value, with each member uniquely expressing this ethos.
While Kim’s sisters, Kendall and Kylie Jenner, adhered to the winter white theme with their ensembles, the variations of styles within the familial wardrobe illustrate a blend of individualism and unity. Kendall opted for a silk gown from Phoebe Philo, while Kylie opted for a dazzling sequin-covered number from Saint Laurent. This choice of attire, while coordinated, allowed each sister to showcase their personal taste, reflecting the nuanced relationship they share in the fashion world.
It is essential to acknowledge that not all family members participated in this festive gathering. Khloé Kardashian’s absence due to her children being unwell emphasizes a significant aspect of the familial experience—prioritizing family well-being over social obligations. This illustrates a shift in values where the Kardashian brand is not solely synonymous with glitz and glamour but also with the realities of family life, especially in a critical season such as the holidays.
Legacy of Extravagance and the Pandemic’s Impact
The Kardashian family’s annual celebrations were historically drenched in luxury, attracting A-list personalities and stars, with past gatherings reportedly costing over a million dollars. The legacy of grand parties, featuring performances from icons like Sia and John Legend, has been a critical part of the family’s public persona. With a significant pause during the Covid-19 pandemic, the 2020 cancellation was a pivotal moment in their tradition, as it marked the first hiatus in nearly 40 years.
However, the transition to a modest celebration in 2023 suggests a reflection on the nature of celebration itself amid ongoing societal changes. While the glamor is still present, it is now paired with a new sense of authenticity and familial connection. The fashion choices, especially those of Kim, reflect this nuanced shift in celebration style—where the essence of love and kinship is prioritized over extravagance.
While the Kardashians may have embraced a more restrained celebration this past Christmas, the underpinning theme remains firmly rooted in high fashion and familial love. The style nuances and evolving traditions signify a brand that is adaptable yet committed to its core identity. This new chapter marks not just a change in celebration style but reflects a deeper understanding of what the holidays represent for one of reality TV’s most iconic families.