Kim Kardashian defended after North West's outfit during public appearance sparks major controversy

Fans of Kim Kardashian have rushed to her defence this week, after the star was condemned by online critics over her controversial eldest daughter's outfit choices.

For those in need of a reminder, the SKIMS boss is mum to four children - daughters North, 12, and Chicago, seven, as well as sons Saint, 10, and Psalm, six - all of whom she shares with ex-husband Kanye West.

This week, however, 44-year-old Kim was papped enjoying a night out on the town in Rome, Italy with her first-born.

The mother-of-four could be seen donning a super-chic black plunge maxi dress, which she'd paired with matching stilettos, a statement necklace and a lengthy crimped down-do.

North, meanwhile, sported a simple black strapless corset, a lace pleated ruffle skirt, and knee-high platform boots. The pre-teen also appeared to be wearing an extreme-length blue wig, which she wore in low pigtails.

As we say, North's alternative eye for fashion has since been called into question by a group of trolls, who've slammed her scantily-clad get-up as 'inappropriate' for her age.

"Not a fan of a bustier on a 12 year old. Love Kim and North but it would have been a no ma’am for me," one hit out.

As another wrote: "What 12 year old wears a corset ???? Kim really doesn’t know how to be a sensible parent."

"North being 12 years old is insane to me," a third continued.

That said, however, the social media stir also saw a group of Kardashian fans rush to mum Kim's defence, pointing out that the reality TV favourite mightn't have had much of a say in the face of North's infamous boldness.

"I know this outfit appears highly inappropriate, but I don't think it's a battle Kim chooses to enter," one fan suggested on the discussion forum Reddit. "From what I've seen and read, Kim is an excellent mother who makes an effort to be hands with her children.

North is Kim's eldest daughter (Instagram/@kimkardashian)

"North is probably insisting choosing what she wants to wear, and Kim allows. But at least Kim can ralk to her kids about dressing older."

The same user continued: "With North developing so soon, Kim will have the talk with her about how some people will view her differently."

Another user penned a warning to haters, adding: "Friendly reminder: we’re talking about children here. Any negative comments about a minor will not be tolerated.

"First-time offenders will receive an immediate temporary ban, and repeat offenders will face a permanent ban. Thank you for understanding and keeping this a safe space."

And another gushed of North: "Omg she grew so much! Also side note any of you in here hating on a child. That’s a child you’re weird."