Kim Kardashian’s fashion brand offers refunds after $148 advent calendar backlash

American reality TV star Kim Kardashian's fashion brand, SKIMS, has offered customers refunds after its $148 advent calendar sparked widespread criticism over the value of items included in the collection.

SKIMS, which Kardashian co-founded in 2019, is known for its shapewear, underwear, loungewear and clothing designed to provide comfort and fit. The brand has since expanded into accessories and other fashion products.

However, its latest holiday offering, a 12-day Accessories Advent Calendar, has attracted criticism from customers who questioned whether its contents justified the price.

Buyers who shared unboxing videos on social media revealed that the calendar contained items such as hair ties, scrunchies, hair clips, branded bobby pins, keychains and a compact mirror.

Several customers described the contents as disappointing and overpriced, arguing that the accessories could be purchased at considerably lower prices elsewhere.

The criticism gained momentum after influencer Kayla Ryan shared a video unboxing the calendar and expressing disappointment with the items. The video attracted millions of views, prompting further reactions across social media.

Some users joked that the calendar contained items that could easily be found at the bottom of a handbag, while others questioned why a brand known for shapewear and clothing had not included any clothing in its holiday collection.

Other customers defended SKIMS, noting that the product had been advertised as an accessories collection rather than a selection of clothing or full-sized products.

The calendar was marketed as a 12-day countdown featuring small accessories and surprises.

Responding to the backlash, a SKIMS spokesperson acknowledged that the product had failed to meet some customers' expectations.

The company said it had personally contacted everyone who purchased the calendar, offering them the choice of a full refund or store credit for future purchases.

“We want every customer to be truly happy with what they receive from SKIMS,” the spokesperson said, adding that customer feedback would influence the brand's approach to future product releases.

Despite the criticism, the calendar was listed as sold out on the SKIMS website, with interested shoppers directed to a waiting list.

Since its launch in 2019, SKIMS has grown from a shapewear-focused label into a major fashion brand, expanding its offerings to include bras, underwear, loungewear, clothing and accessories.

The controversy highlights the challenges premium fashion brands face when customers question whether their products deliver value for money, particularly when a strong brand name and price tag create high expectations.