IT’S been five years since Kim Kardashian and entrepreneur, Jens Grede, first launched Skims – and it’s fair to say the brand has made its mark.
From bodysuits to bras, it’s become a major player in the shapewear industry, with celebs and influencers alike obsessed with their Skims pieces.
THE NORTH FACE x SKIMS has officially landed[/caption]
But the limited edition collection of jackets, ski suits and base layers has fans divided[/caption]
Some say it’s a “rip-off” of Kanye West’s Yeezy line, while others can’t wait to shop[/caption]
The brand was recently valued at a cool $4 billion, and has officially launched its latest collab today – which is certain to rake in even more revenue for the reality TV veteran.
But like anything involving Kim K, people have opinions – and they’re not holding back from sharing them.
The collab in question is THE NORTH FACE x SKIMS: a limited edition collection of jackets, ski suits and base layers.
It’s available both on SKIMS.com as well as select The North Face stores.
In a promo video posted on her Instagram, Kim said: “This collab has been years in the making.
“I’m obsessed with [The] North Face. Their puffer jackets have always been so iconic to me.”
And she explained that the design approach was to bring the “classic Skims fit” to the outdoor retailer’s archival styles.
“A lot of the time with puffer suits, the fill of the puffer can be really heavy and thick,” she said.
“I really wanted to create fits that flattered a curvier figure. So to be able to work from within, with the team, to get the fit right is really cool,” she added.
In true Skims style, Kim also said the base layers will “make you look snatched.”
Not only that but, “they have this technology that keeps you really warm and the tonal colours are unlike anything I’ve seen before.”
However, fans were quick to leave comments about just how warm the items will really be, for skiing.
“I’m confused on why we are just wearing leggings and cropped jackets to ski,” one person wrote.
“It’s still leggings and damn cropped jacket. Like what is that actually gonna do? Not keep you warm that’s for sure.”
“Same! I’d freeze to death lol,” said another.
Others accused the collection of copying Kanye West’s fashion line, Yeezy.
“In true Kardashian fashion, another rip-off. This is Yeezy season 2,” someone posted.
“I was wondering who else saw it,” replied another.
Elsewhere though, plenty of fans shared their excitement for the collection and can’t wait to shop the pieces.
“Kim I literally am trying to save money rn. Pls,” someone joked.
And referring to the brand’s recent collab with Dolce&Gabbana, someone else teased, “Damn Kim, let me recover from the dolce x skims.”
The success of SKIMS
Initially conceived as a vanity project by Kim Kardashian, Skims has metamorphosed into one of the most sought-after lingerie brands, enlisting high-profile names like Jude Bellingham and Nicola Coughlan.
The brand celebrates bodies of all shapes and sizes, and Nicola’s natural curves make her a perfect fit.
Nicola’s stunning debut in a floral “goddess” campaign came just days after Jude Bellingham, the 20-year-old England football star, showcased the men’s line.
Kim praised Nicola, saying: “Nicola is such an inspiration on screen and beyond, and she really brought the campaign to life with her undeniable beauty and energy.”
Since its 2019 launch, Skims has attracted a star-studded roster including Kate Moss, Usher, and Lana Del Rey.
The brand’s value has soared to £3 billion, with a 50% increase in sales last year. Unlike the glitzy allure of premium brands like Victoria’s Secret, Skims excels by blending comfort with subtle elegance, bolstered by savvy viral campaigns.
Kim’s campaign promoting a faux perky nipple bra sparked diverse reactions. Some women found the £64 bra empowering, while others criticised it for objectifying women. Personally, I found it uplifting—both literally and figuratively.
The £70 Skims waist trainer also proved popular, especially among new mothers. Kim revealed she often gifts it to friends post-pregnancy, praising its ability to make her feel “snatched.” Despite health concerns, the corset sold out rapidly online.
Skims has expanded beyond lingerie to include swimwear, dresses, loungewear, PJs, and menswear. The brand’s commitment to inclusivity, featuring a diverse range of celebs and models, resonates with a multi-generational audience.
A notable collaboration with Italian luxury fashion house Fendi in November 2021 further elevated Skims’ profile. The limited collection, starting at $950 (£747), sold out within 24 hours, generating over a million dollars in sales within minutes.
In summary, Skims’ success lies in its unique blend of inclusivity, comfort, and clever marketing, ensuring its place as a dominant force in the fashion industry.
