A Glimpse into Ruby Kemper’s Enchanting Evening at Le Bal des Débutantes in Paris
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Ruby Kemper
Le Bal des Débutantes returned to Paris this year, showcasing a group of distinguished young women from around the world. This exclusive, invite-only event first launched in 1958 and was revived by Ophélie Renouard in 1992, becoming renowned for its glamorous atmosphere and star-studded guest list.
On Saturday, November 29, Ruby Kemper, the granddaughter of former MGM owner Kirk Kerkorian, participated alongside 19 other debutantes at the Hotel Shangri-La. The 20-year-old Cornell University student dazzled in a custom Chrome Hearts gown paired with elegant Louboutin heels, an homage to her Los Angeles roots.
“The gown is very special to me,” Kemper explained. Following her debut at what has been likened to the “Met Gala for Teenagers,” Kemper shared insights with PEOPLE about her memorable evening filled with family and new friendships.
Ruby Kemper
Kemper documented her custom dress fitting in New York City, collaborating with longtime family friends Richard and Laurie Lynn Stark, co-owners of Chrome Hearts. “No one’s ever worn Chrome Hearts to Le Bal, so I really thought that this would be different and special,” she remarked.
Since Chrome Hearts is a relatively new label in haute couture, event organizer Renouard expressed some hesitation regarding Kemper’s choice. “No one knew what it was going to look like. They didn’t know if it was going to be edgy and black,” Kemper recalled. “So when I came out in a pink lacy beaded gown with Japanese pearls, no one expected it.”
Ruby Kemper
In preparation for the event, Kemper’s older sister, Tess, even practiced the Waltz with her the night before. Tess’s own earlier participation inspired Ruby. “I remember going to Le Bal when I was 10 or 11, imagining how my night would go,” she said. “It was beyond my expectations.”
Kemper cherished the friendships formed with her fellow debutantes. As they bonded while preparing for the event, she realized how quickly connections can develop in a short time. “You don’t realize how honestly close and comfortable you get with each other,” she said.
Ruby Kemper
The guest list featured many notable attendees, including young women from distinguished families, some of whom have royal ties. Angela Bassett and Courtney B. Vance were present to support their daughter, Bronwyn, while another debutante, Lady Araminta Spencer-Churchill, a descendant of Winston Churchill, also graced the event, as did Spanish royal HRH Princess Eulalia de Orléans-Borbon.
As the evening progressed, Kemper and the debutantes captured cherished memories in their custom attire, posing for photographs before enjoying the festivities. Alongside Carolina Herrera’s granddaughter, Carolina Lansing, who wore a polka-dotted gown, Kemper reflected on the day’s magic.
Ruby Kemper
Kemper and her sister posed with other debutantes, reflecting on their shared experience. “I think we all had so much more fun than we expected to, and we were so happy,” Kemper remarked, expressing gratitude for the bonds formed throughout the evening.
Her attire, which included the Chrome Hearts gown, was not only a reflection of her personal style but also of her family ties. Jaden Smith assisted her in selecting the Louboutin heels that complemented her ensemble.
Ruby Kemper
The father-daughter dance was a highlight of the evening, with Kemper waltzing with her father, Ross Kemper. The family connection was further evident as she spent quality time with her siblings, Julian and Tess. “They’re my best friends,” she affectionately stated.
While the gala concluded, the celebration continued. Kemper and her fellow debutantes headed to L’Arc, a Paris nightclub, to keep the party alive. “Going out and having fun together, just jumping around and celebrating what we just did, was incredible,” Kemper shared. “It was a perfect way to end a fairytale night.”
