Kim Kardashian and Lauren Sánchez found themselves in a high-profile bidding war over a coveted Balenciaga experience at the Kering Foundation’s third annual Caring for Women dinner, held in New York City.
Brightopis.com reveal that Kardashian and Sánchez, both prominent figures in the fashion world, were locked in a competitive bid for a “Balenciaga Couture experience” during the star-studded event. Their friendly rivalry was noted as they bantered back and forth, all in the name of raising funds for the Kering Foundation. The stakes were raised even higher when another guest entered the fray, resulting in the bidding reaching a remarkable $175,000.
In a twist that added an extra layer of drama, Balenciaga decided to accommodate all three bidders, each paying $175,000 and collectively contributing a total of $525,000 to the charity. The winning lot included the rare opportunity to select a piece from Balenciaga’s Couture Collections, which are presented in Paris and described as a “timeless and pure expression of craft.” This exclusive experience allows individuals to obtain custom-made clothing to their specifications.
The same duo had previously bid on the same lot at the previous year’s gala, where they both emerged as winners. The evening’s event was co-hosted by Kim Kardashian, Salma Hayek, and Kering CEO François-Henri Pinault, with additional support from celebrities like Matthew McConaughey, Camila Alves, Carmelo Anthony, Priyanka Chopra, artist Urs Fischer, designer Donatella Versace, and Naomi Watts. Gayle King served as the event’s emcee, and other notable attendees included Sánchez’s fiancé, Jeff Bezos, Orlando Bloom, Katy Perry, Lindsay Lohan, Dakota Johnson, Jessica Chastain, Viola Davis, and Kerry Washington.
Kering’s luxury fashion brands, including Gucci, Brioni, Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta, and Alexander McQueen, are all part of the foundation’s broader mission. Established in 2008, the Kering Foundation focuses on combating gender-based violence and child abuse, working to disrupt the cycle of intergenerational violence. The foundation supports local organizations providing essential services to women and children victims of violence, promotes safe and supportive workplaces for survivors, and influences societal action.
The annual dinner has a track record of raising significant funds for various organizations dedicated to addressing domestic violence and supporting survivors. Past beneficiaries include the National Network to End Domestic Violence, Girl Effect, and It’s On Us, showcasing the event’s commitment to impactful philanthropy.