Kim Kardashian is back in the loving arms of Balenciaga, proving that fashion relationships can be just as tumultuous as any Hollywood romance.
The high-end brand has decided to forgive and forget, appointing the reality star-turned-billionaire entrepreneur as its new ambassador. It seems they’ve buried the hatchet after a scandalous 2022 campaign that had more twists and turns than a season finale of a reality show.
In a statement that probably needed a drumroll, Kim announced, “For several years now, Balenciaga’s designs have been part of my many looks — and some of my most iconic fashion moments. This historic fashion house embraces modernity, craftsmanship, and takes an innovative approach to design under Demna.” We can only assume that “iconic fashion moments” include the infamous “pantashoes” and that all-black Met Gala ensemble that had us questioning the laws of physics.
Kim, now a ripe 43, has been a longtime fan of the brand and its creative director. She’s practically been on a first-name basis with the entire Balenciaga team, attending runway events and having more outfit changes than a diva at a concert.
But, like any good drama, there was a plot twist. In November 2022, Kim decided to pull a breakup move and sever ties with Balenciaga. The cause? Two jaw-droppingly controversial ads—one featuring kids dressed up in BDSM gear, and the other incorporating US Supreme Court records on child pornography laws. Cue the gasps from the audience.
Our heroine spoke out, saying, “I have been quiet for the past few days, not because I haven’t been disgusted and outraged by the recent Balenciaga campaigns, but because I wanted an opportunity to speak to their team to understand for myself how this could have happened.” Kim, the Skkn by Kim founder, emphasized her role as a mother of four, expressing shock at the disturbing images and proclaiming that the safety of children should be a top priority. Balenciaga was left in the doghouse, and the future of their relationship was as uncertain as Kim’s next Instagram post.
In a saga fit for the tabloids, Balenciaga issued apologies, referring to the campaigns as “inappropriate” and the “wrong artistic choice.” But Kim wasn’t ready to forgive and forget that easily. She took a hiatus from wearing the brand, allegedly turned down a campaign offer, and kept us all on the edge of our fashion seats.
However, as we flipped the calendar to a new year, it seems the storm has passed. Kim has dusted off her Balenciaga wardrobe, and the fashion world is once again graced with her label modeling. We can only imagine the high-stakes negotiations and dramatic conversations that led to this reunion. Who said fashion couldn’t be entertaining? Welcome back, Kim and Balenciaga—the saga continues!
