North West is making headlines again with her bold fashion choices. See the outfit here!
After previously sparking debate over corset outfits and a recent finger piercing, the 12-year-old returned to the spotlight wearing a controversial designer look from Balenciaga while out on a stroll in Manhattan with a friend.
She rocked an all-black ensemble featuring baggy wide-leg shorts and an oversized Balenciaga T-shirt. North completed the outfit with black Balenciaga La Cagole shoes, the brand’s crew socks, and their chunky Crocs collaboration. Thick sunglasses and her signature black-and-green hair styled in ponytails added the finishing touch.
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North West Rocks Controversial Balenciaga Outfit
Of course, no North West outfit is complete without a touch of bling. She accessorized with a Vivienne Westwood Orb necklace, a 3D heart pendant, stacked earrings, multiple bracelets, and a watch, elevating the streetwear look to full-on statement style.
However, the internet thought her outfit was anything but stylish.
“Nothing about this is age appropriate,” said one user on Instagram. A second wrote, “Stylish and Balenciaga should never be used in the same sentence.” A third said, “This child is 12, so sad.” A fourth commented, “The most grown lil kid EVER.” A fifth wrote, “Kim K cant wait for her to turn 13 or 14 and get her every plastic surgery there is.” A sixth noted, “when I was 12 back in 2006 my entire wardrobe was Abercrombie. Just two years prior justice- all justice and limited too. I wasn’t even allowed to wear makeup until I graduated high school. Soffee shorts, sweatpants, and my soccer scrubs were all I wore. LET THESE KIDS BE KIDS…. Damn. This will not turn out well.”
Balenciaga Remains In Demand Despite Past Controversy
The most notable Balenciaga controversy erupted in November 2022, when two separate advertising campaigns drew widespread global criticism for perceived allusions to child exploitation. The “Gift Shop” and “Garde-Robe” campaigns faced backlash for featuring adult-themed props alongside children, as well as controversial books and artwork depicting exploitation.
In response, Balenciaga initially removed the campaigns and issued apologies, but also filed a $25 million lawsuit against the production company and set designer of the “Garde-Robe” campaign, claiming that unapproved items had been included without their knowledge. This attempt to shift blame further angered consumers. Later, Creative Director Demna Gvasalia and CEO Cédric Charbit issued more comprehensive apologies, took full responsibility for the oversight, and dropped the lawsuit.
Despite the controversy, Kim Kardashian—long known for her loyalty to Balenciaga—publicly expressed her disapproval of the campaigns. However, she was then announced as a brand ambassador for the fashion house in January 2024. It appears she is now passing her love for Balenciaga on to her daughter.
