Judge Warns Kanye West and Bianca Censori to 'Dress Appropriately' for Malibu Mansion Court Case

The judge says anyone not complying with the court's dress code will be banned from entering the courtroom.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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A judge has issued a warning to Kanye West and his wife Bianca Censori to wear appropriate clothing when they appear in court next week for a lawsuit over West's doomed Malibu mansion renovation. Judge Brock T. Hammond said everyone at the Los Angeles trial 'must comply with the basic dress code' or they will be banned from entering, adding that no one will be allowed to wear sunglasses or hats and there should be 'no drama' during the proceedings.

Why it matters

Kanye West and Bianca Censori have drawn attention for their unconventional fashion choices, with Censori often wearing revealing outfits in public. The judge's warning suggests the court wants to maintain a professional and orderly atmosphere during the high-profile trial, which involves a lawsuit filed by a construction worker over the Malibu mansion renovation.

The details

The lawsuit was filed by construction worker Tony Saxon, who claims he was fired for raising safety concerns and was only paid once despite being told he would get $20,000 per week for the renovation. Saxon alleges West told him to get rid of all electricity and windows from the $57 million mansion and complete the revamp using large generators, which Saxon refused due to fire hazard concerns. West bought the beachfront home, designed by award-winning architect Tadao Ando, in 2021 and quickly gutted it, later selling it for a $36 million loss in 2024.

  • The 12-day trial is scheduled to begin next week.
  • West bought the Malibu mansion in 2021 and sold it in 2024.

The players

Kanye West

An American rapper, record producer, and fashion designer who is the defendant in the lawsuit over his Malibu mansion renovation.

Bianca Censori

Kanye West's wife, who has often joined him in public wearing revealing outfits.

Tony Saxon

A construction worker who filed a lawsuit against Kanye West over the Malibu mansion renovation, claiming he was fired for raising safety concerns and was only paid once despite being promised $20,000 per week.

Judge Brock T. Hammond

The judge presiding over the trial, who has issued a warning about the dress code and behavior in the courtroom.

Steve Belmont

The buyer who purchased Kanye West's Malibu mansion in 2024 and said he wants to restore it to its original state.

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What they’re saying

“The parties and witnesses you're calling must comply with the basic dress code of the court. No hats, sunglasses, or revealing clothing. No drama.”

— Judge Brock T. Hammond, Presiding Judge

“And if someone doesn't comply, they will not be allowed in the courtroom. If a witness is not dressed appropriately, they will be turned around at the door.”

— Judge Brock T. Hammond, Presiding Judge

What’s next

The 12-day trial is scheduled to begin next week, and the judge's warning suggests he will strictly enforce the dress code and behavior standards in the courtroom.

The takeaway

This case highlights the court's efforts to maintain professionalism and decorum during high-profile trials, even when dealing with celebrities known for unconventional fashion choices. The judge's warning underscores the importance of respecting courtroom norms and expectations, regardless of one's public persona.