How Kim Kardashian's Outfit Became Her Shield in Court: Unpacking the Symbolism of Her Paris Trial Look
'Often celebrity dressing in the courtroom involves trying to dispel any appearance of wrongdoing, whether the high-profile individual is charged with a crime or embroiled in a divorce or other dispute, with ensembles chosen to emphasize the wearer's status as an innocent, upright citizen. In this case, Kim Kardashian is appearing in the role of victim and survivor,' professor Susan Scafidi, founder and director of the Fashion Law Institute, told WWD.
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Kardashian's black suit featured a dramatic silhouette, which can be interpreted 'simultaneously as a nod to traditional courtroom attire, a reminder of feminine vulnerability in its wasp waist and skirt rather than trousers, and a reclamation of power through its broad shoulders,' according to Scafidi.
Shortly after her court appearance, searches for Kardashian's Alaïa sunglasses spiked on Google, reinforcing her status as a fashion influencer. For Scafidi, the choice of wearing sunglasses to the trial was strategic. 'The sunglasses add glamour but can also hide any unflattering traces of tears, whether red eyes or smudged makeup,' she said.
The entrepreneur also sported a $3 million diamond necklace by Samer Halimeh New York, crafted in 18-karat white gold and featuring a total of 80 diamonds. 'The diamonds are a reminder of the stolen jewelry and of her wealth and celebrity, but the shape of the necklace is also a conservative complement to the classic suit,' the professor said. Her accessories included more luxury pieces from jewelers Repossi and Briony Raymond.
'Kardashian's look would be wrong for an accused wrongdoer, but it is well-chosen for an anticipated judicial victory. Whatever the outcome of the case, the ensemble is a winning combination — would that every crime victim who relives a terrifying moment in court were protected by a metaphorical suit of armor and the hardest of gems,' Scafidi said.
Kardashian was held at gunpoint at the Hôtel de Pourtalès in Paris in 2016. A group of 10 people is accused of stealing an estimated $10 million in jewelry and cash and a $4 million engagement ring from her hotel room. Two of the defendants, Yunice Abbas and Aomar Ait Khedache, have admitted to the charges against them. The rest deny them.
During her testimony on Tuesday, Kardashian recounted the events of the robbery. 'I absolutely did think I was gonna die,' she said, according to BBC.
The trial concluded its dramatic testimony phase. The final verdict and sentencing are yet to be determined.
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