Kim Kardashian made a striking appearance at the 2026 Academy Museum Gala, which took place on 17 October at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles. The event, renowned for attracting the biggest names in both fashion and entertainment, saw Kardashian embodying the essence of Old Hollywood glamour.
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For the gala, the 45-year-old reality star opted for an exquisite archival gown from Balenciaga, dating back to 1951. This stunning strapless piece, sourced from vintage specialist Lily et Cie, was adorned with intricate lace detailing and featured a delicate baby pink satin sash draping elegantly across the neckline. The dress was finished off with an oversized bow at the back, showcasing Kardashian’s flair for classic style.
Accompanying her striking gown was a vintage-inspired bouffant hairstyle, complemented by a selection of dazzling diamond jewellery. Among her accessories were eye-catching Zydo earrings and a breathtaking choker necklace by Leviev, featuring an impressive 55 carats of diamonds set in 18K white gold, adding to her overall glamorous persona for the evening.
Kardashian’s look was not just a style statement but also a homage to the legendary actress Elizabeth Taylor, a figure she has admired for many years. In a forthcoming project, season 2 of Ryan Murphy’s series ‘All’s Fair’, set to premiere on Hulu with three episodes on 4 November, Kardashian pays tribute to Taylor by recreating a famous look from her appearance at the birthday celebration of Princess Grace of Monaco in 1969.
The mastermind behind Kardashian’s enchanting look for the gala is renowned stylist Law Roach, who has recently begun collaborating with her. Roach, who has previously styled illustrious names such as Zendaya, Ariana Grande, and Céline Dion, expressed his admiration for Kardashian, describing her as a “beautiful person” who is both pleasant and easy to work with. In an interview with PEOPLE, Roach revealed, “She knows what she wants, but she also lets you create,” highlighting their creative synergy.
Roach also elaborated on what sets his styling apart, noting that each stylist has a unique perception of their client. “What’s different from stylist to stylist is just our perception of who the woman is,” he explained. “The way I see Kim Kardashian may vary from how others see her, and that’s the beauty of fashion and creativity — it’s all about perception.”
The collaboration between Roach and Kardashian appears to be thriving, with the stylist describing their partnership as “really, really, really fun.” Their previous engagement, at the opening of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art on 19 September, also drew attention as Kardashian turned heads in a chic Fall/Winter 2004 Yves Saint Laurent dress designed by Tom Ford.
As renowned events like the Academy Museum Gala continue to spotlight influential figures in the industry, Kardashian’s bold fashion choices and her blossoming partnership with Roach are setting new trends and shaping the narrative of celebrity style. The melding of classic inspiration, vintage craftsmanship, and modern aesthetics portrays Kardashian as not just a reality star but also a serious player in the fashion landscape.
In the ever-evolving world of fashion, Kim Kardashian stands out as a figure who honours historical influences while assertively carving out her contemporary identity. As she continues to navigate the realms of celebrity and style, her upcoming projects and appearances will undoubtedly attract attention and admiration, ensuring her status as a fashion icon remains secure.