Kim Kardashian Inspires Memes and Reactions With Identity-Obscuring Balenciaga Ensemble at Met Gala

Kanye West’s influence was stamped all over Kim Kardashian’s 2021 Met Gala look, which featured her wearing a head-to-toe, all-black outfit that obscured her face.

Kim has been warming up to the look over the last few weeks, with her arriving in Manhattan last weekend for the gala in a similar all-black, leather ensemble. She previous wore something comparable at ’Ye’s Donda listening events.

For the Met Gala, Kim went with a full Balenciaga look that had a futuristic aesthetic, wearing a stretch minidress, bodysuit, elbow-length gloves, full head mask, a cape with a train, and “Pantaleggings” with built-in high heels. Balenciaga’s creative director Demna Gvasalia accompanied her to the event, identity also obscured in a black hoodie and head covering.

According to Page Six, the two met via Kanye. The rapper also donned a near-identical mask at his listening parties and released Donda merchandise that was designed by Balenciaga.

An insider told the outlet that Kim was making a “new subculture and fashion statement” with her look. “There’s no logo, no face, but everyone knows it’s her,” the insider said. “Kanye gave her the courage to push creativity and people’s imagination through art. It’s the ultimate confidence.”

The source added that this year’s gala was the first one Gvasalia has ever attended since he’s an extremely private person. “He doesn’t even walk out at the end of his shows,” the source said. “So it’s a really big deal that he is here at the Met and walking with Kim.”

Kim’s outfit was a departure from her past Met Gala outfits, which have usually leaned toward fitted gowns with provocative silhouettes, previously wearing Thierry Mugler, Versace, Balmain, and Vivienne Westwood, among others.

Of course, the internet had a field day with Kim’s Kanye-inspired look. Check out some reactions below.