The Courtroom Catwalk: Anna Delvey Turns Heads at Immigration Hearing
In the high-stakes world of fashion, rule-breakers often become trend-setters. And Anna Sorokin, the faux-German heiress whose con artistry made headlines, is nothing if not a maverick. As she awaits her next immigration court hearing, the notoriously stylish scammer has managed to turn a court-mandated ankle monitor into this season’s must-have accessory.
On Thursday, June 6th, Sorokin—who infamously went by “Anna Delvey” during her decadent deception—was spotted leaving her New York City residence in an ensemble that can only be described as criminally chic. The pièce de résistance? A bespoke ankle monitor bearing her trademark initial “A,” hand-embellished with dozens of dazzling crystals.
The high-shine baroque accessory provided the perfect counterpoint to Sorokin’s refined yet edgy look: a creamy double-breasted minidress co-designed with up-and-coming label Shao New York, along with a matching neck scarf, tan stilettos, and oversized sunglasses. Equal parts old-world elegance and modern insouciance, it’s a look that recalls the bygone glamour of dynasty-era New York with a subversive, street-style twist.
But this wasn’t Sorokin’s first foray into fashion-forward ankle wear. Later that week, she made another court appearance in a crisp white suit-dress, also a collaboration with designer Shao Yang. With its strong shoulders, plunging neckline, and sleek midi length, the ensemble struck the perfect balance of confidence and sophistication. Of course, no Anna Delvey look would be complete without those signature embellished restraints.
In an industry that often takes itself too seriously, Sorokin’s willingness to subvert authority and playfully reimagine the trappings of criminality feels like a much-needed breath of fresh air. “She’s turning the tables and embracing her circumstances through a campy, high-fashion lens,” says renowned stylist Kelly Cutrone, who has worked closely with both Sorokin and Yang. For their runway show last fall—staged on the roof of Sorokin’s East Village apartment—Cutrone revealed they’re planning “more tongue-in-cheek house arrest looks” for their rebellious muse.
Like many of history’s most celebrated fashion disruptors, from Vivienne Westwood to Alessandro Michele, Sorokin has an uncanny ability to spin controversy into covetable, convention-shattering style. And while some have criticized her for failing to show remorse, it’s clear her greatest talent lies in provoking us to question societal norms through the transformative power of self-expression. Scathing social critique or simple self-indulgence? However you interpret Anna Delvey’s deliciously irreverent ankle monitor moments, one thing is certain: the world will never look at court-ordered accessories the same way again.
