Kim Kardashian is no stranger to controversy, and when she announced the launch of her latest venture, a shapewear line, the global attention her chosen name received was nothing short of phenomenal. Initially naming the shapewear line KIMONO Solutionwear, the reality star and entrepreneur was met with a rather delicate matter of controversial backlash.
Kardashian was met with accusations of “cultural appropriation”, due to the fact that the Kimono is a traditional Japanese garment and is a far cry, in its form, from Kim’s shapewear. Following the initial outcry, it was rumored that the starlet was looking to trademark the word “kimono.” When she had first announced her forthcoming shapewear line, Kim Kardashian had told The New York Times that she would stand by her brand’s name, KIMONO, until Japanese city, Kyoto’s mayor, Daisaku Kadokawa addressed Kim. In a letter he conveyed the significance of the kimono to Japanese culture and requested that she reconsider the name of her venture.
After much personal consideration, Kim decided to change the name of her highly anticipated shapewear collection. Taking to Twitter in a series of tweets, the KUWTK star stated, “I am always listening, learning and growing - I so appreciate the passion and varied perspectives that people bring to me. When I announced the name of my shapewear line, I did so with the best intentions in mind,” continuing, “My brands and products are built with inclusivity and diversity at their core and after careful thought and consideration, I will be launching my Solutionwear brand under a new name. I will be in touch soon. Thank you for your understanding and support always.”
Now, back with a less controversial name, Kim has finally revealed the new name for her spandex solutionwear collection: SKIMS. Announcing the new name, she posted a picture on Instagram with the caption, "My fans and followers are a huge inspiration to me – I’m always listening to their feedback and opinions, and am so grateful they shared their ideas for a new brand name. After much thought and consideration, I’m excited to announce the launch of @SKIMS Solutionwear™ coming September 10. I love the idea that the pieces will be the closest thing to someone’s skin, skimming with amazingly soft and supportive fabrics which accentuate the best parts of our bodies."
With an aim to be inclusive, SKIMS Solutionwear will be available in nine shades and in sizes from XXS to 4XL, as Kim seems to swear by them now as she claims her latest venture is “shapewear and solutions for women that actually work.”
