Skims vs. Kimono: What's the difference?

Skims is a shapewear and loungewear brand from Kim Kardashian. A Skims garment is a modern shapewear and loungewear essential that offers minimalist, comfortable basics for everyday wear.

Here's a clear comparison to help you understand Skims and traditional kimonos and choose which fits your wardrobe best.

Skims

Launched in 2019, Skims quickly became a household name for its inclusive and comfortable shapewear, loungewear, and basics. The brand's core mission is to provide functional, body-contouring solutions for every body type, with a focus on a wide range of sizes and neutral shades that blend seamlessly under clothing.

• What it is: A modern brand specializing in shapewear, underwear, and loungewear designed for comfort and a smooth silhouette.
• Key features: Highly inclusive sizing (XXS to 4X), an extensive palette of neutral "nude" shades, and seamless construction for an invisible look.
• Price: Approximately $20 for underwear to $150 for loungewear sets, positioning it as affordable luxury.
• Materials/Construction: Made from comfortable, stretchy fabrics like nylon, spandex, and modal designed for durability and all-day wear.
• Sizing/Fit: A snug, body-hugging fit intended to contour and support. A detailed size guide helps customers find the right fit, though some items may run small.
• Pros: Extremely comfortable, broad size and color inclusivity, versatile for daily use, and creates a seamless look under clothes.
• Cons: Certain pieces can run slightly small, and the brand is still in the early stages of adopting broad sustainability practices.

Skims is for those who need reliable, comfortable, and functional foundation pieces that enhance their natural shape for everyday life.

Shop this product: skims.com

Traditional Kimono

A traditional kimono is a Japanese garment known for its elegant silhouette and cultural significance. These garments feature flowing designs with wide sleeves, intricate patterns, and luxurious fabrics, representing centuries of Japanese artistry and craftsmanship.

• What it is: A traditional Japanese garment featuring elegant, artistic designs with cultural significance.
• Key features: Flowing silhouettes, wide sleeves, intricate patterns, obi-inspired belts, and luxurious materials.
• Price: Authentic pieces typically range from $200 to over $600, reflecting premium materials and traditional craftsmanship.
• Materials/Construction: Emphasis on high-end fabrics like silk and other premium materials, with a focus on traditional techniques and detailed finishing.
• Sizing/Fit: Traditional sizing with a focus on loose, flowing, or draped fits. Often includes adjustable elements like obi belts.
• Pros: Unique and artistic designs make a statement, exceptional quality materials, high level of traditional craftsmanship.
• Cons: Significantly higher price point makes it an investment piece, less versatile for casual everyday wear, requires knowledge of proper wearing techniques.

Traditional kimonos are for those looking for culturally significant garments rooted in Japanese tradition and high-end craftsmanship.

Skims vs. Traditional Kimono Comparison

Style & Aesthetic

The visual difference between the two is stark. Skims champions a minimalist, functional aesthetic with a palette of neutral tones designed to be discreet and versatile. Its purpose is to act as a foundation - sleek, simple, and supportive pieces that work underneath other clothing or as comfortable loungewear.

In contrast, traditional kimonos are all about making an artistic statement. Their designs are expressive and elegant, featuring flowing fabrics, bold patterns, and dramatic silhouettes rooted in Japanese culture. These are standalone garments meant to be seen, elevating an outfit for special occasions or cultural celebrations.

Quality & Materials

Both prioritize quality, but with different goals. Skims uses high-performance, durable blends of nylon and spandex that offer stretch, breathability, and comfort for long-lasting everyday wear. The construction is seamless and smooth, built for function.

Traditional kimonos focus on luxury and cultural artistry, using premium materials like silk and other high-end textiles. The emphasis is on traditional craftsmanship, with artisanal details and fine finishing that reflect centuries of Japanese textile tradition. Each garment is designed to feel as good as it looks, with a focus on drape and texture.

Fit & Sizing

Inclusivity is a cornerstone of the Skims brand. Sizing runs from XXS to 4X, catering to a vast range of body types. The fit is designed to be form-fitting and compressive, hugging the body to create a contoured silhouette.

Traditional kimonos follow traditional Japanese sizing principles. The fit is generally looser and more fluid, designed to drape beautifully over the body rather than constrict it. While adjustable elements like obi belts are included, the sizing approach is based on traditional measurements.

Price & Value

Skims offers accessible luxury, with prices ranging from $20 to $150. The value comes from its versatility and durability, providing comfortable daily solutions that last. It's an investment in your foundational wardrobe.

Traditional kimonos operate in the luxury market, with prices starting at $200 and going up significantly. The value here lies in the cultural significance, premium materials, and traditional craftsmanship. A kimono is an investment in cultural artistry and traditional Japanese fashion.

Shop SKIMS here.

Which One Should You Choose?

Your choice ultimately comes down to what you are looking for: everyday function or cultural fashion expression.

Choose Skims if:

• You need comfortable, high-quality shapewear, underwear, or loungewear for daily use.
• You value inclusive sizing and a wide range of skin-toned colors.
• You want seamless, supportive pieces to wear under your clothes.
• Your budget is geared towards accessible, high-performance basics.

Choose a traditional kimono if:

• You are looking for a unique, culturally significant garment for your wardrobe.
• You appreciate luxury fabrics, traditional craftsmanship, and Japanese-inspired design.
• You have a higher budget for investment fashion items.
• You need an elegant garment for a special occasion or cultural event.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between Skims and traditional kimonos?

The primary difference is their purpose. Skims is about foundational, everyday comfort and utility with its shapewear and basics. Traditional kimonos are cultural garments offering artistic, statement pieces rooted in Japanese tradition.

Which is more expensive?

Traditional kimonos are significantly more expensive, with authentic pieces costing hundreds of dollars, reflecting their positioning as cultural luxury items. Skims is considered affordable luxury, with most items priced under $150.

What is a traditional Japanese kimono?

A traditional kimono is a Japanese garment that features flowing lines, wide sleeves, and artistic elements rooted in centuries of Japanese culture and craftsmanship, rather than contemporary fashion interpretations.

How does Skims sizing work?

Skims is known for its highly inclusive sizing, typically running from XXS to 4X. Its products are designed for a tight, shaping fit, and the brand provides a detailed size chart to help you find the right size for your measurements.

Is Skims by Kim Kardashian?

Yes, Skims was founded by Kim Kardashian and is designed to serve the shapewear and loungewear market.

Which is better for everyday wear?

Skims is designed specifically for everyday wear. Its focus on comfort, function, and seamless construction makes it ideal for daily use, whether at home, work, or out and about.

What materials do traditional kimonos use?

Traditional kimonos focus on luxurious materials like silk, and high-end natural fibers that offer a beautiful drape, texture, and feel, consistent with their cultural significance and premium pricing.

Is Skims shapewear comfortable?

Yes, comfort is a key selling point for Skims. Unlike traditional restrictive shapewear, its products are made from soft, breathable, and superstretchy fabrics designed for all-day comfort.