In January 2023, Kim Kardashian’s noteworthy purchase of the Attallah cross necklace—a breathtaking piece adorned with amethyst and diamonds, once owned by Princess Diana—made headlines around the globe. Acquired at a Sotheby’s auction for an impressive $197,453, this jewelry piece not only holds historical significance but also radiates a sense of personal connection for Kardashian, who has openly expressed her admiration for the late princess. The excitement surrounding this purchase was palpable, with fashion enthusiasts and royal watchers eagerly anticipating when Kim would choose to don this remarkable accessory.
As the days turned into weeks, speculation and anticipation surged among fans and critics alike regarding the necklace’s debut. A glimpse of Kim wearing the necklace during a fitting, captured by Maison Margiela’s Image Director Alexis Roche, fueled public interest. While the dramatic ensemble paired with the necklace suggested a high-fashion moment, Kim opted for a different outfit for its official unveiling, which made appearances on social media all the more compelling.
The wait finally ended on a glamorous night in Los Angeles at the 2024 LACMA Art and Film Gala, an event known for its star-studded guest list and breathtaking red carpet moments. The moment Kim stepped onto the event’s carpet wearing the Attallah necklace ignited a collective gasp, blending nostalgia with modern style as she paid homage to one of her fashion idols, Princess Diana.
For the gala, Kim chose a stunning white gown by Gucci, renowned for its plunging neckline that dipped to her navel—an intentional design that provided a stage for the Attallah cross to shine brilliantly against her décolletage. The juxtaposition of the necklace’s deep purple hues against the pristine white of her dress created a visual masterpiece that captured the essence of high fashion and legacy. Kim’s choice of styling further amplified the grandeur of her overall look; she draped an oversized men’s coat over her shoulders while donning a Bvlgari pearl choker—a testament to her flair for combining various iconic elements into one cohesive statement piece.
Kim’s beauty look was equally impressive, showcasing a deep side part in her trademark dark locks, enhanced with extensions for added drama. Collaborating with stylist Chris Appleton, the emphasis was clearly on delivering a sophisticated yet bold aesthetic that complemented the dramatic nature of the necklace. The collective effort behind Kim’s appearance highlighted not only her personal style but also her understanding of how to intertwine history and fashion.
Kim’s connection to Princess Diana goes beyond mere admiration. Although the Attallah cross was never a part of the royal family’s collection, it was a piece that Diana famously wore after being lent it by Naim Attallah, who purchased the piece in the 1980s. Yet, it was Diana who became synonymous with this exquisite jewelry for decades. To many, it would seem unfathomable that such a celebrated piece lay dormant and unseen for years until Kim’s acquisition and subsequent choice to bring it back into the public eye. As Naim Attallah’s son noted, Diana was the sole wearer of the necklace, and with Kim’s debut, she takes on a legacy that carries both weight and allure.
Kardashian’s passion for collecting memorabilia from her revered icons reveals an intriguing facet of her personality—a blend of nostalgia and ambition. Beyond Diana’s piece, Kim also holds jade and diamond bracelets from Elizabeth Taylor, and her homage to Marilyn Monroe by wearing one of the actress’s iconic dresses at the Met Gala in 2022 solidifies her place within celebrity history. This pursuit of connection to personal idols transcends the superficiality of fashion; it reflects a deep-seated appreciation not just for their style, but for the stories and legacies they left behind.
In a world where fashion often comes and goes in fleeting trends, Kim Kardashian’s choice to embrace a piece carrying such rich history places her in a unique position. By wearing Princess Diana’s Attallah cross necklace, she not only affirms her own status as a fashion icon but also cements her role as a custodian of these significant symbols of cultural heritage. Her evolution as a style maven continues to unfold, reminding us of the enduring power of exemplary fashion inspired by history.