The world of fashion consistently intersects with history in captivating ways, and a recent event in January 2023 underscored this dynamic more profoundly than many could have anticipated. Kim Kardashian purchased Princess Diana’s remarkable amethyst and diamond Attallah cross necklace at a Sotheby’s auction, paying an astonishing $197,453 for this cherished piece of royal jewelry. Since that moment, fashion enthusiasts and royal watchers alike have been abuzz with excitement, eager to witness how Kim, a global fashion icon in her own right, would choose to don a necklace that holds such a storied past.
It was only a matter of time before the first appearance of the cross created by Naim Attallah would take center stage once more, and that moment finally arrived during a stunning reveal at the 2024 LACMA Art and Film Gala in Los Angeles. The piece, which had lay dormant in the shadows of history, sparked a frenzy of speculation as Kim’s fans eagerly awaited its unveiling. It was no secret that the cross held significant personal meaning for Kim, deriving from her ardent admiration for the late Princess Diana. However, the true question was not just when she would wear it, but how she would style such a statement piece.
Before the gala, a tantalizing glimpse of Kim wearing the cross during a fitting sparked interest, revealing her meticulous process of curating an equally striking ensemble to accompany the necklace. Yet, it became abundantly clear that Kim had decided against debuting the necklace with that initial outfit. The anticipation only heightened, making her eventual appearance all the more electrifying.
At the gala, Kim did not disappoint. Clad in a breathtaking plunging white dress designed by Gucci, she expertly positioned the Attallah cross to adorn her chest, perfectly balancing recognition of the necklace’s grandeur with her flair for contemporary styling. The dress’s neckline, plunging to her navel, allowed the cross to take center stage, symbolizing a fusion of historic elegance and modern fashion. Complementing this stunning look, Kim accessorized with an oversize men’s coat and a Bvlgari pearl choker — reinforcing her status as a seasoned trendsetter.
More than just a nod to fashion, Kim’s ensemble echoed themes of femininity and strength, embodying the spirit of Princess Diana. With the Attallah cross now gracing her neck, Kim wisely ensured that every element of her appearance was deliberately chosen to amplify the necklace’s importance. Each accessory felt thoughtfully placed rather than merely added as an afterthought.
The historical context surrounding the Attallah cross adds layers of intrigue to Kim Kardashian’s ownership of the piece. Despite its significance, the necklace was not originally a royal family heirloom. Instead, it was loaned to Princess Diana by her close friend, Naim Attallah, who purchased it in the 1980s. This unique backstory emphasizes that, while Kim’s ownership of the necklace may reflect her admiration for Diana, it also speaks to the idea of reclamation — transforming an artifact from the past into a new narrative that transcends time.
This is a recurrent theme in Kim’s life as she curates items that belonged to influential women who inspire her. This includes Elizabeth Taylor’s stunning jade and diamond bracelets, harvested from an auction in 2011, and her memorable tribute to Marilyn Monroe at the Met Gala in 2022, where she donned a dress that once belonged to the iconic actress. In this context, Kim’s purchase of the Attallah cross becomes not just an acquisition but a bridge of connection to feminine power throughout history.
Kim Kardashian’s embrace of Princess Diana’s Attallah cross necklace highlights a profound dialogue between history and modern fashion. This narrative of a widely admired piece now residing in the hands of a contemporary icon underscores the continuation of legacies and the power of style to transcend generations. Kim is not merely a collector of luxurious items; she plays a pivotal role in retelling the stories behind these artifacts, each wear breathing new life into their histories while simultaneously reshaping the modern fashion landscape. As she moves forward, the world eagerly awaits how Kim will weave the essence of these powerful women into her future sartorial decisions.