Kim Kardashian faces backlash for wearing Princess Diana's Iconic cross necklace

Kim Kardashian stirred up strong reactions on social media after donning Princess Diana's famous Attallah Cross necklace at the 2024 LACMA Art + Film Gala in Los Angeles.

The reality star paired the historic amethyst pendant-acquired in 2023 for nearly $200,000 at a Sotheby's auction-with a plunging white gown and bold jewelry, sparking criticism from fans who found the ensemble "vulgar" and "tone deaf."

The Attallah Cross, originally crafted by Garrard in the 1920s, was a favored piece of Princess Diana, who wore it to multiple high-profile events in the 1980s, including the 1987 Birthright charity gala.

Surrounded by 5.25 carats of diamonds and often paired with Diana's sophisticated style, the necklace has long been a symbol of her elegance and grace.

Kardashian's decision to wear it in a bold, cleavage-baring outfit did not sit well with many who felt she transformed the piece's legacy into "something vulgar."

"She turned it into something vulgar," one social media user wrote, while another said, "Wearing a cross with such a revealing dress is tacky."

Many comments suggested Kardashian's look was more about shock value than honoring the cross's heritage, with one fan remarking, "If you're going to wear a sacred symbol, at least show the respect Diana did."

Kardashian's history with iconic fashion pieces

This isn't the first time Kardashian has worn an iconic piece previously owned by a legendary figure.

In 2022, she famously wore Marilyn Monroe's "Happy Birthday Mr. President" dress to the Met Gala, a choice that received backlash and allegations of damage to the vintage gown.

Her tendency to incorporate significant historical fashion items into her wardrobe has become a divisive topic, with critics accusing her of trying to buy her way into the legacy of legendary women like Diana and Monroe.

For Kardashian, her glamorous appearance was completed with an ivory coat, styled off the shoulder, while her hair was swept into a sleek bob, enhancing her signature look. C

Critics, however, believe her goal was not to honor Diana's legacy but to insert herself into the narrative of history's iconic women.

A Night at LACMA and the meaning of the Attallah Cross

The LACMA Art + Film Gala gathered icons from art, film, fashion, and entertainment to support the museum's curatorial and educational programs.

This year's honorees included Elvis director Baz Luhrmann and sculptor Simone Leigh, while Leonardo DiCaprio and Eva Chow returned as co-chairs for the 13th consecutive year.

Proceeds from the annual gala support LACMA's mission to highlight the intersection of art and film in culture.

Kardashian's attire may have been intended as a tribute, but fans argue that her styling of Diana's cherished pendant missed the mark, sparking further debate on the careful balance between honoring iconic pieces and using them for personal fashion statements.