When Kim Kardashian appears, people expect the unexpected—but this time, even longtime fans were left squinting in disbelief.
Walking the red carpet in what looked like a second skin covering her entire face, the reality star blurred the line between avant-garde fashion and something almost unrecognizable. What was the intent behind the head-to-toe concealment, and why did it spark such polarized reactions?
At 44, Kardashian has long mastered the art of headline-making fashion, and her latest appearance at the Academy Museum Gala in California was no exception. While the skin-toned Maison Margiela gown fit like a second skin, it was the sock-like balaclava that dominated conversation, leaving only a vague outline of her facial features visible.
This wasn’t her first experiment with masks on the red carpet. In 2021, she stunned in an all-black Balenciaga ensemble, complete with a cape and fully concealed head. But this newest look seemed to push the envelope even further, prompting social media to erupt with both confusion and amusement.
Critics were vocal. The Daily Mail labeled it one of the “worst dressed” moments of the night, calling the SKIMS founder’s look “peculiar.” Fans compared the mask to everything from “crazy pumpkin heads” to “a brown paper bag,” while others joked about possible nods to her past relationship with Kanye West. One commenter quipped, “So… she has a face. Never noticed till now,” highlighting the surreal effect of the ensemble.
Others took a lighter view, seeing it as playful or clever. Observers noted the parallel to her 2021 masked outfit, especially with Balenciaga creative director Demna Gvasalia attending in full black mask and attire. Some even suggested that the look was less about shock value and more about discretion, perhaps concealing recent cosmetic work.
Meanwhile, Kendall Jenner opted for a more traditional gown, seemingly maintaining a respectful distance on the red carpet. Regardless of interpretation, Kardashian’s choice left no one indifferent.
Conclusion
Kim Kardashian’s masked appearance at the California gala underscores her enduring ability to provoke conversation. Love it or hate it, the balaclava look demonstrates how she continues to challenge fashion boundaries, leaving audiences to question where style ends and spectacle begins.