When Kim Kardashian arrived at the Academy Museum Gala on Saturday, October 18, she proved once again that she’s willing to suffer for fashion—quite literally, since she couldn’t see where she was going.
The SKIMS founder stunned attendees by covering her entire face and hair with a nude-colored mask from the Maison Margiela Fall 2025 Couture collection designed by Glenn Martens. The look immediately became the night’s hottest topic, leaving everyone wondering: what’s the point of flying in your makeup artist from New York if nobody can see your face?
That’s exactly what happened. Speaking exclusively to Variety on the red carpet, Kim Kardashian revealed, “You know, I love Margiela. I flew in my favorite makeup artist Mario from New York, and this is kind of a last-minute thing, so I’m sure he’s not so happy with it.”
Meanwhile, the 44-year-old reality star posted a cheeky Instagram video backstage, capturing the absurdity of the moment. “Mario, do I look OK? The make-up?” Kardashian asked her makeup artist, Mario Dedivanovic, in the video. “Your make-up looks amazing, yes,” he jokingly replied. “It’s good? All that hard work guys,” Kardashian continued jokily. “I feel like I always do this to Mario, though,” she added.
The nude mask was paired with a matching strapless corseted gown with draped sleeves, coordinating long nude nails, and a layered crystal-embellished choker necklace featuring green jewels and cross pendants. The entire ensemble screamed high fashion—or perhaps just screamed, since navigating a gala blind is no easy feat.
Embed from Getty ImagesInterestingly, Kim Kardashian told reporters the look reminded her of her own brand, describing it as “very SKIMS-y.” When your nude mask matches your shapewear company’s aesthetic, you know you’ve achieved peak brand synergy.
This isn’t the first time Kim Kardashian has made headlines for concealing her face at a major gala. The look drew immediate comparisons to her head-to-toe covered black Balenciaga outfit at the 2021 Met Gala. Apparently, when it comes to red carpet fashion, visibility is optional.
Social media reactions ranged from admiration to bewilderment. “I liked that she committed to the full look,” one person wrote on Instagram, while another agreed, “See this is actually interesting.” Others were less enthusiastic, with some finding the outfit “ridiculous” or “creepy.”
Embed from Getty ImagesThe star-studded gala honored Penélope Cruz with the Icon Award and Bruce Springsteen with the Legacy Award, though they probably had an easier time seeing their dinner plates than Kim Kardashian did.
Say what you will about the nude mask, but Kim Kardashian once again proved she’s fearless when it comes to pushing fashion boundaries—even if it means walking blind into a room full of Hollywood’s elite.
