Kim Kardashian and the checkered history of celebrity courtroom dressin

Kim Kardashian walked into a Paris courtroom this month wearing jewelry worth an estimated $8 million. She was calm, collected, and flanked by her mother, Kris Jenner. Her appearance wasn’t just dramatic—it was symbolic. Kardashian was testifying in her own robbery trial, nearly eight years after she was held at gunpoint in a Paris hotel.

The 2016 incident remains one of the most shocking celebrity heists in recent memory. The robbers—some in their 60s and 70s—face charges of armed robbery, kidnapping, and conspiracy. One suspect died before trial. Another developed Alzheimer’s and was declared unfit to stand.

In court, Kardashian wore vintage Galliano: a black skirt suit with a plunging neckline and thigh-high slit. Her accessories included a 52-carat teardrop necklace by Samer Halimeh, diamond earrings, and a 4.55-carat Repossi cuff. She also wore a pavé piece by Briony Raymond.

Some observers called it a revenge look. Others saw a reminder of extreme wealth. But fashion law expert Douglas Hand viewed it differently. “She’s reclaiming her power,” Hand told CNN. “This shows she’s a survivor, not a victim.”

Kardashian’s bold ensemble sparked comparisons to other high-profile courtroom fashion moments. In 2023, Gwyneth Paltrow wore quiet luxury during her skiing trial. Her wardrobe—featuring The Row, Proenza Schouler, and Celine—won fans online. Some even recreated her outfits.

Despite criticism of her wealth and choices, Paltrow emerged unscathed. The jury ruled in her favor. Her clothes, subtle and strategic, helped frame her as composed and relatable.

Author E. Jean Carroll also curated her courtroom image in 2023. She testified against Donald Trump, who denied her assault claims and mocked her publicly. In court, she wore modest tailored outfits in earth tones. Her look countered Trump’s insults. The jury awarded her $5 million in damages. A year later, she won another $83.3 million for defamation.

Megan Thee Stallion and Cardi B have also leaned on fashion while facing legal scrutiny. Their courtroom looks—tailored suits and sleek bobs—blended style with strength.

In contrast, Martha Stewart’s approach during her 2004 insider trading trial backfired. Her choice of a Hermès Birkin bag and mink stole signaled privilege. The New York Times criticized her look as out-of-touch.

Michael Jackson, facing molestation charges in 2005, wore stage-like brocade and jewels. Though acquitted, his courtroom fashion drew heavy scrutiny.

“Courtroom looks are choreographed,” Hand said. “They’re meant to project credibility and control.” For celebrities, clothes can speak louder than words. “Your outfit speaks before you do,” he added.

Music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, facing federal sex trafficking charges, has taken a softer approach. He has worn muted sweaters, glasses, and kept his hair grey. His look aims to downplay power and emphasize vulnerability.

In March 2023, Paltrow became a poster child for “quiet luxury.” During her trial, she wore insider labels and minimal makeup. She looked calm, even under pressure.

Similarly, Winona Ryder’s 2002 shoplifting trial became a fashion moment. She wore demure Marc Jacobs dresses and headbands. Critics noted her strategic move away from dark suits. But her efforts didn’t sway the court. Ryder was found guilty and sentenced to probation and community service.

In 2004, rapper Lil’ Kim coordinated her courtroom attire with her lawyer. She wore tailored Marc Jacobs pieces. Her look aimed to soften her image.

Fashion choices can also become promotional tools. When A$AP Rocky appeared in court in 2025, he wore Saint Laurent. A press release confirmed the brand’s involvement. Critics called it inappropriate. But others viewed it as savvy branding.

Anna Delvey used her court appearance to promote a rising fashion label. The outfit, custom-made, was part of her ongoing image reinvention. Delvey, once convicted of grand larceny, now runs a fashion PR firm.

For Kardashian, the diamonds weren’t just jewelry. They were a message. She wasn’t there to deny wrongdoing. She was there as a victim—and a survivor.

“Her outfit didn’t speak to the court,” said Hand. “It spoke to the public.” Whether bold or brash, it made headlines—and reminded the world that image, even in court, is everything.

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