The time has come: Kim Kardashian has finally broken her silence, a week after the fashion brand’s controversial ad campaign shocked the world. Here’s what she had to say.
The reality star shared on Instagram stories and Twitter, “I have been quiet for the past few days, not because I haven’t been disgusted and outraged by the recent Balenciaga campaigns, but because I wanted an opportunity to speak to their team to understand for myself how this could have happened.” The ad campaign featured children carrying teddy bears in bondage gear, and another campaign was set in an office and featured paperwork regarding an NSFW child court case. The ads sparked outrage and were even addressed in a segment of a Fox News show, Tucker Carlson Tonight. Longtime collaborator Kardashian continued to write, “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.”
As for her future with Balenciaga? She frequently wears their designs, including the infamous Met Gala gown, where she was covered head to toe in black (above). She has also walked the runway for the label. So, what will happen after this controversy? Kardashian wrote, “As for my future with Balenciaga, I am currently re-evaluating my relationship with the brand, basing it off their willingness to accept accountability for something that should have never happened to begin with - & the actions I am expecting to see them take to protect children.” The brand released its own statement on its social media, addressing the controversies, apologizing for its mistakes, and stating the actions the company is planning to take. For those who forgot, the brand recently dropped Kardashian’s former partner, Kanye West.
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While the brand is known for making strange collections that seem to ignite conversation wherever it goes, like putting heels on Crocs or setting the price for destroyed sneakers at close to $2,000, these latest controversies have seemingly taken it too far. What will happen next? Stay tuned.