Kim Kardashian made a striking appearance at the Academy Museum Gala in Los Angeles on Saturday, October 18, captivating attendees with a unique ensemble. Her look for the annual benefit included a full facial mask, completely obscuring her face.
Kardashian, 44, wore a tan Maison Margiela Couture strapless gown. The dress featured a corset-style bodice, voluminous puffy sleeves, and a intricate display of diamond and emerald necklaces. The translucent face mask added an unexpected element to her glamorous outfit.
She told Variety on the red carpet that the mask was a "last-minute thing." Kardashian noted her affection for Margiela and joked that her makeup artist, Mario Dedivanovic, whom she flew in from New York, might not have been pleased with the addition.
Kardashian confirmed that her hair and makeup were fully done before she put on the mask. She also addressed concerns about the mask’s practicality, stating, "I’ll probably take it off upstairs to eat, right? I ate beforehand to make sure I’d be fine, but I can see."
When asked by Variety reporter Marc Malkin if it was hot beneath the mask, Kardashian indicated she felt cool and comfortable.
Kardashian connected the mask to her Skims brand, noting its "very Skims" aesthetic. She recalled a similar experience with her opaque Balenciaga mask at the 2021 Met Gala. She expressed her desire to wear the ensemble exactly as envisioned by Margiela designer Glenn Martens, including both the dress and the mask.
Her lifestyle brand, Skims, founded in 2018, is known for its shapewear and innovative designs. The company recently garnered significant attention for its new "Faux Hair Panty," thongs with synthetic hair attached to the front.
These "merkins" quickly sold out within minutes of their release. Kardashian explained to Variety that the idea stemmed from a photoshoot where someone wanted "hair down there." She thought putting it on a thong would be easier.
Kardashian added that Skims is committed to offering a variety of unique products. She cited the brand’s "nipple bra" and specialized butt and hip shapewear as examples of its unconventional offerings.
Skims also launched a "Face Wrap" earlier this summer. This facial garment is designed to cover the jawline and part of the chin. According to its website description, it features the brand’s sculpting fabric with collagen threads for "ultra-soft jaw support." Velcro closures ensure comfortable daily wear.