Kim Kardashian is the latest brand ambassador for Balenciaga. The reality-turned-mega star has long sported Demna’s tongue-in-cheek designs: she’s previously co-starred in a number of the House’s campaigns, attended the brand’s runway shows, walked in the House’s 51st Couture show and accompanied the designer to the 2021 Met Gala. But now, she’s making the relationship official.
“For several years now, Balenciaga’s designs have been a part of my many looks – and some of my most iconic fashion moments,” Kardashian said in a statement. “This historic fashion house embraces modernity, craftsmanship and takes an innovative approach to design under Demna. For me, this long-standing relationship is built on mutual trust and a commitment to doing what’s right. I’m excited about this next chapter for the brand and to become their ambassador.”
Kardashian’s association with the House has not always been smooth sailing. In November of last year, Balenciaga’s name was riddled with scandal, thanks to two controversial campaigns: one showcasing children with BDSM-inspired teddy bear bags and another that included SCOTUS documents regarding child pornography laws. At the time, Kardashian stated that she was “reevaluating [her] relationship with the brand.”
“As a mother of four, I have been shaken by the disturbing images,” she said. “The safety of children must be held with the highest regard and any attempts to normalize child abuse of any kind should have no place in our society – period.” She did, however, acknowledge the brand’s actions to remedy the situation: “I appreciate Balenciaga’s removal of the campaigns and apology. In speaking with them, I believe they understand the seriousness of the issue and will take the necessary measures for this to never happen again.”
Despite her qualms with the defaming 2022 campaign, Kardashian, this December, boldly stepped out of her Escalade, alongside her sister Kendall Jenner, to find her seat at Balenciaga’s Fall 2024 fashion show in Los Angeles. Her attendance marked her stamp of approval on the controversial brand once again; and today’s ambassadorship announcement only confirms the regained strength in that relationship — for better or for worse.
See Kim Kardashian’s official Balenciaga portrait, shot by documentary photographer Platon, above.
