Kim Kardashian’s Billion-Dollar Empire: How She Built SKIMS
- Age: 43 (born October 21, 1980)
- Height: 5’2” (157 cm)
- Business Ventures: SKIMS, SKKN by Kim, and various other brands
- Spouse: Previously married to Kanye West (2014-2022), Kris Humphries (2011-2013), and Damon Thomas (2000-2004)
- Net Worth: Estimated at $1.7 billion (as of 2024)
From Reality Star to Business Icon
Kim Kardashian is no stranger to the spotlight, but she’s proven time and again that she’s more than just a TV personality. Over the years, she has built an empire spanning beauty, fashion, and even private equity. But her most successful venture? SKIMS—the shapewear and loungewear brand that changed the game for body confidence and comfort.
Solving a Personal Problem Turned Global Success
SKIMS was born out of Kim’s personal frustration with traditional shapewear. She often cut and customized pieces to fit properly under her outfits because existing options were uncomfortable, impractical, and lacked diverse skin tones.
Instead of settling for less, she saw a business opportunity and created a brand that offered inclusive sizing (XXS-5X), a wide range of skin tones, and comfortable yet effective designs. SKIMS quickly became the go-to brand for everyday essentials that actually work.
A Bump in the Road: How SKIMS Got Its Name
Originally, Kim planned to name her brand Kimono—a play on her name. However, the name received criticism for cultural appropriation, leading her to quickly rebrand to SKIMS.
This change not only showed Kim’s ability to listen and adapt, but also reinforced SKIMS’ mission: making everyone feel included, no matter their body shape or skin tone.
Related: Kylie Jenner: From Lip Kits to Billion-Dollar Empire
Related: Kim Kardashian x Nike: The Power Move Shaking Up Activewear!
The Secret Behind SKIMS’ Explosive Growth
Kim Kardashian’s social media influence played a huge role in SKIMS’ success. With over 350 million Instagram followers, she doesn’t need traditional advertising—her personal posts alone generate millions of views and sales.
But SKIMS doesn’t rely on Kim alone. The brand has launched high-profile campaigns featuring celebrities like Heidi Klum, SZA, and Lana Del Rey, making SKIMS a luxury yet accessible fashion statement.
One of SKIMS’ biggest moves? Becoming the official underwear supplier for Team USA at the Olympics—a partnership that solidified its status as a global brand.
The Power Duo Behind SKIMS
Kim didn’t build SKIMS alone. She partnered with Jens Grede, a fashion entrepreneur who co-founded Frame and Good American. Their perfect mix of celebrity influence and business expertise helped skyrocket SKIMS to a $4 billion valuation.
Investors and fashion insiders see SKIMS as more than just shapewear—it’s a disruptor in the fashion industry, expanding into loungewear, swimwear, and even menswear.
More Than Just a Brand—A Movement
SKIMS isn’t just about selling products; it’s about empowerment, confidence, and inclusivity. Kim Kardashian took an everyday necessity and turned it into a billion-dollar powerhouse that celebrates all body types.
And with her sharp business instincts and ever-growing vision, one thing is certain: SKIMS is only getting started.
