Met Gala - Kim Kardashian

Q: Who Infamously Wore Marilyn Monroe’s Dress to the Met Gala?

A: Kim Kardashian

In one of the most talked-about Met Gala moments of recent years, reality star and entrepreneur Kim Kardashian made headlines when she wore Marilyn Monroe’s iconic “Happy Birthday, Mr. President” dress to the 2022 event. The skin-tight, crystal-studded gown was originally worn by Monroe in 1962 during her sultry serenade to President John F. Kennedy at Madison Square Garden.

Kardashian borrowed the gown from Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum, which had acquired it for nearly $5 million. Her appearance at the Gala sparked heated debate across fashion and preservation communities. Critics expressed concern over the risks of wearing such a delicate piece of fashion history, while others questioned whether the moment honoured or exploited Monroe’s legacy.

Was the Dress Damaged?

Following the event, concerns escalated when photos circulated online allegedly showing signs of stress and damage to the gown—missing crystals, stretching, and fraying fabric in key areas. While some experts in textile preservation expressed alarm, Ripley’s denied that Kardashian caused any permanent harm to the dress. In a statement, the museum emphasized that "great care was taken" and that Kardashian only wore the original gown briefly on the red carpet before changing into a replica.

Despite reassurances, the incident sparked broader questions about the responsibilities of museums and celebrities when it comes to safeguarding cultural artifacts. For many, the risk taken with Monroe’s iconic dress serves as a cautionary tale about the intersection of fame, fashion, and historical preservation.