Kris Jenner has revealed the unusual way she managed to buy one of Elizabeth Taylor's most famous fashion pieces. The reality star shared the story behind the black velvet Scorpio evening cape, which Taylor wore to Princess Grace of Monaco's 40th birthday party in 1969.
In a behind-the-scenes video for All's Fair Season 2, Jenner explained how she tracked down the historic garment after learning that it had been sold following Taylor's death. The cape has now become part of her personal collection, and she even allowed her daughter Kim Kardashian to wear it in the Hulu drama.
The Cape's Hollywood History
Taylor's famous Scorpio evening cape was made by Roman fashion house Tiziani in 1968 or 1969. The black velvet design featured two sparkling scorpions on the front, another on the hood, and a light ivory silk lining.
The actress first wore the dramatic piece on November 15, 1969, at Princess Grace of Monaco's 40th birthday celebration in Monte Carlo. The party was known as the Scorpio Ball because Grace Kelly, who later became Princess Grace, was born under that star sign.
Although Taylor was a Pisces, she attended the event with her then-husband Richard Burton, who was a Scorpio. The cape was made to match the party's theme, making it one of the most memorable looks from the evening.
How Kris Jenner Got the Cape
In the new video, Jenner explained that she had always wanted to get her hands on Taylor's famous cape after learning it had been sold at auction following the actress's death. She knew the piece was special and wanted to find a way to add it to her own collection.
Jenner said Christie's contacted the people who owned the cape at the time to ask if they would consider selling it. However, their first answer was a firm no, leaving Jenner with another challenge before she could get the historic garment.
'I don't take no for an answer,' Jenner said as she recalled what happened next. She explained that she asked for the owners to be contacted again, this time to find out whether they knew who wanted to buy the piece.
The Owners Changed Their Minds
Jenner revealed that the people holding the cape were given her name, which changed the outcome of the talks. She recalled that they were told, 'Kris Jenner would love to buy the cape,' and the owners then agreed to the sale.
The story shows that Jenner did not simply find the cape and purchase it without a fight. She had to make another attempt after the first refusal, and her interest in the piece helped open the door to a deal.
She later described herself as the 'custodian' of the historic garment, saying it was an honour to look after such an important part of fashion history. Jenner also appeared protective of the cape, telling the people handling it, 'No one touch it,' because she did not want anyone to damage it.
Kim Kardashian Wears the Original
The cape eventually found its way into All's Fair Season 2 after Jenner discussed its history with the show's co-producer Ryan Murphy. During a dinner conversation, Murphy suggested that the series should create its own Scorpio Ball, inspired by the party where Taylor first wore the design.
Kim Kardashian was then given the chance to wear the historic piece while playing divorce lawyer Allura Grant. Jenner said she visited the set and was delighted to see how closely Kim's hair, make-up, and outfit matched Taylor's original look from 1969.
Kardashian also confirmed that the cape belonged to her mother and that she had borrowed it for the show. The reality star said she felt lucky to wear the piece, while Jenner praised the final look and said Kim reminded her of a modern-day Elizabeth Taylor.
