‘Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’ Star Dorit Kemsley’s Dramatic Schiaparelli Reunion Dress, Explained

Dorit Kemsley put her “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” season 13 tag line to the test in a look worn for the Bravo show’s reunion: “fashion is my language and I speak it fluently.” In the episode, which aired its first part on Wednesday, Kemsley showed up in a statement red dress from Schiaparelli’s spring 2023 ready-to-wear collection and matching Balmain shoes.

The hooded ensemble recalled Schiaparelli’s “Stop, Look and Listen” collection from 1935, according to the brand. Designed by Elsa Schiaparelli, the 1935 collection drew inspiration from India’s Princess Karam of Kapurthala’s personal style and included sari-like evening gowns and dresses with harem pants.

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Princess Karam, daughter of the Maharaja of Kashipur, was considered a fashion icon of her time and often appeared on best-dressed lists. She moved to Paris in 1934, when she would be seen in eye-catching, vibrant saris. During her time in the French capital, the Indian princess embraced European fashion, adding couture pieces to her South Asian wardrobe.

According to Billy Boy’s 2016 “Frocking Life: Searching for Elsa Schiaparelli,” the French couturier won Princess Karam as a client with her “baroque usage of Indian lavishness.”

Titled “The Extra Ordinary,” Schiaparelli’s spring 2023 ready-to-wear collection presented “crisp designs, from chic black tailoring through to monochromatic eveningwear,” as previously reported by WWD.

Besides being a reality star, Kemsley also launched her swimwear line, Beverly Beach By Dorit, in 2017 and released a bridal collection in partnership with Australian designer Nektaria in 2022.

In “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,” Kemsley became known for wearing luxury clothes from brands such as Gucci, Balenciaga and Chanel.

Kemsley, however, wasn’t the only one wearing Schiaparelli at the reunion episode. Sutton Stracke sported a blue midi dress from the surrealist brand, accessorizing with gold jewelry. The reunion also saw Kyle Richards in Victoria Beckham, Kathy Hilton in Oscar de la Renta and Erika Jayne in Balmain.

Schiaparelli RTW Spring 2023

Launch Gallery: Schiaparelli RTW Spring 2023

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