Kim Kardashian's shapewear and clothing brand, Skims, has announced that it will refund customers who purchased its $148 (£110) advent calendar, following widespread criticism on social media over the quality of its contents.
The accessories advent calendar, which promised "twelve days of fun surprises," was mocked online for including items such as hair clips and keychains. Some social media users compared the contents to items one might find lost behind a sofa cushion.
A spokesperson for Skims told several media outlets that "for some, the calendar didn't meet expectations" and that the company has "personally contacted every customer" to offer a full refund or credit toward other products.
Social Media Backlash
On TikTok, one account named spicychathouse likened the calendar's contents to things "my cat collects from around my house." Another user remarked that it looked like "a bunch of stuff that Kim Kardashian was emptying out of her bedside table." Several videos showed individuals cleaning out their own sofas and jokingly claiming they had accidentally recreated the Skims advent calendar.
The negative reaction highlights the challenges brands face when launching seasonal products that fail to resonate with consumers, especially when priced at a premium.
Skims' Rapid Growth
Skims was co-founded by Kardashian in 2019 and has since become a major player in the shapewear and loungewear market. According to Forbes, the brand has made the reality TV star a billionaire. In 2025, Skims was valued at $5 billion after raising millions in new funding, underscoring its impact on the fashion industry.
The company's swift response to the backlash, offering refunds and credits, may help mitigate damage to its reputation. However, the incident serves as a reminder that even successful brands can misstep when it comes to product quality and customer expectations.
As of now, Skims has not disclosed how many customers requested refunds or the total cost of the returns. The brand continues to expand its product lines and global reach, with Kardashian's influence playing a key role in its marketing strategy.
This is not the first time a celebrity-branded product has faced criticism. However, Skims' proactive approach to customer service may set a precedent for how companies handle similar situations in the future.
