Unpacking Fashion, Beauty & Style Trends in KUWTK Season 7: A Deep Dive into a Defining Era
For over a decade, Keeping Up with the Kardashians wasn't just a reality show; it was a front-row seat to the ever-shifting landscape of pop culture, particularly when it came to fashion, beauty, and style. While the show spanned fourteen years and twenty seasons, offering countless glimpses into their evolving aesthetics, Fashion, Beauty & Style Trends in KUWTK Season 7 played a pivotal role in cementing the family's influence. This season, like many others, captured a family deeply immersed in shaping (and often challenging) contemporary style norms, revealing a blend of calculated fashion statements, unexpected beauty revelations, and the raw, often chaotic, process behind their iconic looks.
From sartorial makeovers to candid cosmetic procedures, the Kardashians and Jenners offered an unfiltered look at their relationship with appearance, setting trends and sparking conversations that continue to echo today. This isn't just about what they wore; it's about how they approached self-presentation as a form of power, entertainment, and personal expression, giving us a masterclass in modern celebrity branding.
At a Glance: Key Takeaways from the Kardashian-Jenner Style Journey
- Evolution is Constant: The family's style wasn't static; it was a continuous experiment, influenced by new relationships, career ambitions, and public feedback.
- The Power of a Stylist: A curated wardrobe, often orchestrated by a professional, can dramatically redefine one's public image and set new trends.
- Beauty as a Battleground: From cosmetic procedures to makeup choices, the family faced public scrutiny, internal critiques, and personal struggles, often documented in high definition.
- High Stakes of High Fashion: Securing designer relationships and navigating the competitive world of luxury fashion requires significant effort and negotiation.
- Authenticity vs. Image: The tension between personal comfort and polished public persona was a constant theme, revealing the sacrifices made for style.
- Family as Fashion Critics: The sisters and Kris Jenner were each other's harshest (and most honest) critics, often leading to dramatic style interventions and memorable squabbles.
- Every Moment is a Photo Opp: Their lives blurred the lines between private moments and public spectacle, emphasizing the importance of being "camera ready" at all times.
The Style Architects: How the Kardashians & Jenners Built a Fashion Empire
Long before Instagram ruled our feeds, the Kardashian-Jenner clan was already building a visual dynasty, turning every outfit, every makeup look, and every hair flip into a moment. Their approach to fashion wasn't just about wearing clothes; it was about curating an image, understanding the power of aesthetics, and using it to define their brand. While the specific trends might shift season by season, the underlying principles of their style evolution remained consistent throughout the show's run, including pivotal periods like Season 7.
One of the most profound shifts in this journey came with Kanye West's influence on Kim Kardashian's style. When she began dating Kanye, his intervention, along with his stylist, was nothing short of a revolution. They famously cleaned out her closet, discarding the leopard prints, chunky belts, and bodycon dresses that defined her early aesthetic. Kim's initial reaction was tears, a deeply human response to letting go of her identity. Yet, she later embraced the change, recognizing it as a necessary step in transforming her look from "trendy" to "high fashion." This moment was a masterclass in rebranding, showcasing how external influence can dramatically elevate a personal style, pushing boundaries and opening doors to designer relationships.
This commitment to high fashion extended to Kim's meticulous approach to her wardrobe. In one of the final season's episodes, she unveiled her extensive fashion archive in her Calabasas home. This "time capsule" houses virtually every look, dress, and event outfit she's ever worn, from a lavender bridesmaid gown worn at Khloé's wedding to all her Met Gala ensembles. It’s more than just clothes; it's a living museum of her career, each piece a tangible memory of a moment in time. "It's like going down memory lane. It's all so special," Kim mused, highlighting the deep personal connection she has to her wardrobe. This dedicated preservation underscores the value they place on their fashion choices as historical artifacts of their journey.
Navigating Sisterly Style Critiques
Of course, not all style transformations were met with universal acclaim, especially within the family. The sisters were often each other's harshest critics, leading to some of the show's most memorable and cringe-worthy moments. In 2018, Kim famously criticized Kourtney and Khloé's experimental style during a Japan trip, calling them "clowns." She specifically disliked Kourtney's cobalt smoky eye, exclaiming, "This is not a tourist thing where it's like, Halloween, dress up like a f—ing Japanese geisha, unless we're at a geisha house." Kourtney, however, stood her ground, finding her look "fun for Japan." This exchange perfectly illustrates the clash between curated, high-fashion sensibilities and a more playful, individualistic approach to style.
This tension wasn't new. The idea of "copying" style also frequently became a point of contention. Kim once accused Kourtney of copying her style during an argument over outfit choices for Kourtney's 40th birthday party. Kim expressed her frustration, explaining the "legwork" involved in maintaining relationships with designers for borrowing dresses. Kourtney, in turn, defended herself, asserting they have "completely different looks" and that Kim "can't ban me" from designers. This revealed the cutthroat nature of celebrity styling and the territorial instincts that emerge when fashion becomes intertwined with personal brand and access.
The family's internal style policing wasn't always negative. Sometimes, it was born from a desire to uplift. In 2017, Kim orchestrated a secret style makeover for Khloé. Kim admitted she "cringed" at Khloé's trendy outfits, calling her "that on steroids." She secretly packed Khloé's bag for a Santa Barbara trip with an entirely new wardrobe, aiming for a "more simple style" and believing Khloé's "body really is the accessory." This transformation was a pivotal moment for Khloé, ushering in a more refined and minimalist aesthetic that many fans applauded. It showcased the sisters' complex dynamic, where criticism often stemmed from a protective desire for each other's success and image.
The Price of the Purchase: Shopping and Image
The pursuit of the perfect look also highlighted some relatable, if extreme, tendencies. Early in the show's run, Kim started to show signs of a shopping addiction. Kourtney and Kris challenged her to refrain from buying anything at the mall, a task Kim found impossible. Her declaration, "I am adult. I can do whatever I want!" was met with Kris's famous retort, "That's what an addict would say." This moment offered a candid look into the consumerist culture that defines celebrity life and the psychological grip of fashion, reminding viewers that even immense wealth doesn't insulate one from personal struggles with consumption.
For a deeper dive into all things Kardashian-Jenner throughout the years, including their business ventures and personal milestones, check out Everything KUWTK Season 7.
Beauty Under the Microscope: Procedures, Products, and Public Eye
Beyond fashion, the Kardashian-Jenner family's journey has been deeply intertwined with beauty—from their evolving makeup routines to their candid discussions about cosmetic procedures. Their lives offered a unique, often controversial, window into the pressures and possibilities of maintaining a public image in an era of hyper-visibility.
The family was never shy about discussing cosmetic enhancements, often documenting them on the show. In a 2018 episode, Kris Jenner underwent surgery for drooping earlobes after a casual comment from Kim made her obsessively self-conscious. She openly desired "cute ears." The family, including Kim, approved the results, with Kim noting, "Your ear looks like a normal ear now!" This moment, seemingly minor, highlighted the constant pressure to maintain a youthful appearance and the impact of even small critiques within the family dynamic. It normalized cosmetic procedures as part of their beauty regimen, blurring the lines between necessity and desire.
Beauty, for the Kardashians, wasn't just about looking good; it was a skill, a craft, and sometimes, a morbid fascination. In 2018, Kim, considering mortuary makeup, practiced her skills on Kris Jenner, using her mom as a "faux corpse." This unusual scene showcased Kim's burgeoning interest in makeup artistry and her willingness to explore unconventional applications. It also offered a bizarrely endearing glimpse into their mother-daughter relationship, where Kris was often the willing (if sometimes bewildered) participant in her daughters' ventures.
Early Beauty Lessons & Public Scrutiny
Even at a young age, the pressure to conform to beauty standards was evident. Kylie Jenner got in trouble for wearing too much makeup when she was just 11 years old. Caitlyn Jenner disapproved, stating, "She's 11 years old and she shouldn't be wearing all that makeup...that's the bottom line." Kris, ever the pragmatist, replied, "You gotta deal with your kids growing older." This early conflict foreshadowed Kylie's eventual transformation into a beauty mogul, revealing the family's differing philosophies on age-appropriate beauty and the challenges of growing up in the spotlight.
The human element of beauty wasn't always glamorous. During a lunch with Khloé, half of Kourtney's face froze from anesthesia after a dentist visit, making her unable to talk properly. Khloé, unable to contain her laughter, found the situation utterly hilarious. This moment, far from being a fashion statement, was a reminder of the everyday mishaps that can occur, even for those constantly under the public eye, and the power of sisterly teasing.
On a more serious note, Kim experienced her initial outbreak of psoriasis, which caused significant panic. Khloé, in a moment of concern mixed with humor, mistakenly thought Kim had ringworm. This storyline brought an element of vulnerability to the show, destigmatizing a common skin condition and showing that even the most glamorous figures face real-world health and beauty challenges. It was a rare glimpse behind the perfectly polished facade, offering a relatable moment for viewers.
Bold Statements & Branding: When Personal Style Becomes Pop Culture
The Kardashian-Jenners understood that style wasn't just about personal preference; it was a tool for branding, activism, and cultural impact. Their willingness to push boundaries, endure controversy, and turn personal moments into public spectacle defined their approach to fame.
In December 2007, early in their public journey, Kim stripped down for Playboy, adorned with pearls. Kris Jenner was supportive, but Kim was initially hesitant due to prior negative publicity from a leaked sex tape. Kourtney commented that Kim wasn't "just standing there with her boobs out" for Playboy, contrasting it with a later Paper magazine shoot. This move was a strategic play to control her narrative and assert agency over her body and image, marking her as a bold, undeniable presence in pop culture.
Following in a similar vein of body positivity and activism, Khloé would rather go naked than wear fur. During season three, she participated in a nude campaign for Peta's "I'd Rather Go Naked Than Wear Fur" initiative. However, she later disaffiliated from Peta after anti-fur protesters attacked Kim with a flour bomb in 2012, showcasing the complexities and potential pitfalls of celebrity activism. It highlighted the family's evolving relationship with causes and the unpredictable nature of public backlash.
Their commitment to image extended even to intimate family moments. In season one, the sisters and Kris did their first swimsuit shoot together at Joe Francis' house in Puerto Vallarta. They did so without informing Caitlyn, who then crashed the shoot, leading to classic family drama. This early moment underscored the importance of visually documenting their sisterhood and collective beauty, a theme that would recur throughout the series.
But not every provocative shoot was a comfortable experience. On season one of Kourtney and Kim Take New York, Kim cried over her W magazine cover shoot, where she was depicted nude in silver paint. She was "so f—king mad" and "freaking out," claiming she was promised she'd be "covered in artwork" and found the experience "uncomfortable." This candid vulnerability offered a rare peek behind the curtain, revealing the power dynamics and potential for miscommunication in high-stakes editorial shoots, and the emotional toll of maintaining a provocative image.
Unfiltered Moments & Public Scrutiny
The show also captured highly personal, often less glamorous, choices. In a moment of drunken spontaneity, Kris Jenner got Kendall and Kylie's names tattooed on her lower back, flanking a cross, stating she was "mad at Kim and Kourtney and Khloé." This impulsive act of permanent self-expression was a testament to her love for her younger daughters and her often-unfiltered emotional responses, showcasing that even matriarchs have their moments of rebellion.
Similarly, for her sweet sixteen, Kendall Jenner snuck off to Vegas with Kylie to almost get a tattoo without parental permission. In the tattoo chair, she had second thoughts and called Kourtney, who talked her out of it by sharing her own regret about breast implants and highlighting the permanence of tattoos. This storyline offered a valuable lesson on impulse decisions and the lasting impact of body modifications, especially for young people under intense media scrutiny.
Even in moments of crisis, the cameras (and selfies) were rolling. In a truly infamous scene, Kim took selfies during the car ride to drop Khloé off at jail, prompting Kris Jenner to famously say, "Kim, would you stop taking pictures of yourself? Your sister's going to jail! Have a little compassion!" This moment perfectly encapsulated the family's unique relationship with media, where self-documentation and personal branding often superseded the seriousness of a situation, becoming an iconic meme and a commentary on our selfie-obsessed culture.
And sometimes, even the most glamorous moments had a touch of reality show chaos. On a family trip to Bora Bora, Kim lost a $75,000 diamond stud earring in the ocean after then-boyfriend Kris Humphries playfully tossed her in. This highly publicized incident, with Kim dramatically crying, became a symbol of their extravagant lifestyle juxtaposed with relatable (if high-stakes) mishaps, proving that even diamonds can't escape the drama.
Finally, while the family often prioritized Kim's career, other sisters also had their significant moments. Kris forgot about Kourtney's first magazine cover shoot for 944 magazine, distracted by Kim's Comic Con appearance. Khloé provided much-needed support to Kourtney, highlighting the often-uneven distribution of attention within the family and the importance of sisterly solidarity during career milestones.
Lessons from the Kardashian-Jenner Style Playbook
What can you take away from the Kardashian-Jenners' epic journey through fashion, beauty, and style, as vividly documented in seasons like KUWTK Season 7 and beyond?
- Embrace Evolution: Your personal style isn't set in stone. Be open to re-evaluating, experimenting, and even having a Kanye-level closet purge. Your taste will change, and your image can evolve with it.
- Know Your Brand: Whether you're a reality TV star or navigating your career, understand how your presentation communicates your brand. Does your style reflect your aspirations?
- Invest in What Matters: Kim's fashion archive isn't just a collection of clothes; it's a testament to preserving her journey. Consider what items hold personal or aspirational value for you and care for them.
- Family (or Friends) as Feedback Loop: While not always gentle, honest feedback from trusted individuals can be invaluable. Just be prepared to stand your ground if their vision clashes with yours.
- Beauty is Personal: From earlobe surgery to mortician makeup, what one person considers a beauty priority, another might find extreme. Define your own comfort levels and preferences.
- Don't Let the Noise Dictate Your Choices: Kylie's early makeup choices or Kim's W magazine discomfort remind us that external pressures are constant. Strive for authenticity in your style and beauty choices.
- The Selfie Culture is Real: While perhaps not to the "jail selfie" extreme, documenting your looks and moments is part of modern life. Find your balance between living in the moment and capturing it.
The Kardashian-Jenner family's influence on fashion, beauty, and style is undeniable. Their time on Keeping Up with the Kardashians, particularly defining periods like Season 7, offered an unparalleled look into the deliberate and often dramatic construction of celebrity image. From grand makeovers to candid health struggles, they showed us that style is more than just clothes and makeup; it's a powerful narrative tool, a source of both confidence and contention, and a perpetually evolving mirror of self.